Drip Irrigation for Tomatoes: Emitter Placement and Scheduling

For drip-irrigated tomatoes, run the main line along the row and place two 1-gallon-per-hour emitters per plant, one on each side, 6 inches from the stem. Watering frequency depends on soil type, plant size, and weather. In clay, water spreads broadly (turnip shape); in sand, it moves downward (carrot shape). Start with 30 minutes every 3 days for plants under 18 inches tall. Increase run time as plants grow—by midsummer, 2 hours every 3 days may be needed. Avoid daily watering; let the soil dry slightly between cycles. Watch for mid-afternoon leaf droop as a signal to increase duration.