Over-Fertilized Patio Tomatoes: Self-Watering Pot Issues

Manure Ratio Fixable

Clarissa's 4:1 soil:manure (vs. 7:1) is salvageable. Remove some mix, replace with straight soil.

Bigger Problem: Self-Watering Pot

Bottom-watering reservoirs keep roots constantly wet—tomatoes need dry-down cycles. Wet roots = curled brown leaves.

Solution

1. Stop filling reservoir.
2. Water from top only when soil dry 2 inches down.
3. Let reservoir dry out completely between fills.
4. Or ignore reservoir entirely; top-water like nature.

Why Top Watering Wins

Rain waters from above. Roots need oxygen; constant saturation causes rot. Top watering allows proper gas exchange.