Tomato growers advised on natural fertilizers and heat protection in Czechia and Slovakia

Gardeners in the Czech Republic and Slovakia are encouraged to use simple home‑made fertilizers to strengthen tomato plants. One recipe combines 1 kg of fresh nettles steeped in 10 L of rain or standing water for one to two weeks, then diluted 1 : 10 before weekly application. Another uses 2–3 banana peels soaked in 1 L of tap water for two days, filtered and diluted 1 : 5 for use every 10–14 days. Both solutions supply potassium, nitrogen and trace minerals that improve stem strength, root development and fruit quality.

During periods of extreme heat, when daytime temperatures exceed 30 °C, growers are advised to keep leaf cover to shield fruits, avoid excessive leaf removal, and provide afternoon shade with a light‑filtering net. Mulching with straw or dried grass (5–8 cm thick) helps retain soil moisture and reduce soil heating. Watering should be deep and applied early in the morning, with checks on soil moisture before additional watering. These combined practices aim to prevent heat‑induced stress, blossom drop and sun‑burned tomatoes, ensuring a healthier and more abundant harvest.