non fruiting tomatoes in greenhouse

[zena172]

Hi from new user and I have a question. Last year I planted in new compost in my greenhouse, several tomato plants and capiscum plants., some purchased as plants and some grown from seed. None of the plants flowered therefore no fruit was produced. In desperation I lifted a plant into pot and stood it in the garden where it then flowered and grew fruit. I have grown successful tomatoes in previous years although 2008 was not as good as expected with less fruit than before.
I clean my greenhouse each year and sterilise any pots I am going to use.
Can anyone help with suggestions as to why nthis happened so this year i may have more success.

[Lesley Jay]

Hi Zena, welcome to our forum! I always grow my tomato plants outside rather than in the greenhouse. All leafy growth and no flowers would point towards too much nitrogen, whether in the new compost or fertilizer / food. My guess would be that digging the plant up shocked it into thinking it's days were numbered so the plant automatically flowered to reproduce fruit and seeds.

[DavidT]

Good evening Zena and welcome to the site. It could also be that you were a bit impatient regarding the toms and peppers.

[zena172]

Originally Posted by Lesley Jay

Hi Zena, welcome to our forum! I always grow my tomato plants outside rather than in the greenhouse. All leafy growth and no flowers would point towards too much nitrogen, whether in the new compost or fertilizer / food. My guess would be that digging the plant up shocked it into thinking it's days were numbered so the plant automatically flowered to reproduce fruit and seeds.

Thank you Lesley Jay, never thought i may be feeding too much. Think i will grow outside like you do and hope for better results.

[Lesley Jay]

Hi Zena, you have 'hit the nail on the head'! You should only begin feeding your tomato plants after the first fruits have formed. I feed mine once a week.