Managing Heat on West-Facing Balcony Gardens

West-facing balconies get intense afternoon sun. Don't try to keep plants cool — tomatoes need heat. Instead, protect from extreme peaks (>90°F/32°C).

Practical Strategies

• Shade cloth, screening, or umbrella during hottest hours
• Double pots + straw mulch = excellent moisture retention
• Water deeply morning + evening if pots dry by day's end
• Monthly feeding essential for containers

Blossom-End Rot Fix

Your past BER came from dry/wet cycling, not just dryness. Add ½ cup lime per plant now, work in lightly — calcium prevents BER. Consistent twice-daily watering in heat solves the root cause.