Cherry tomatoes are one of the easiest tomato varieties to grow, but larger-fruiting types like Money Maker often need a bit more attention to keep plants balanced and fruit ripening well.

It’s quite possible your plants are carrying too much fruit. This can happen when laterals are not removed often enough during the growing season, which leads to overcropping. Laterals are the side shoots that grow in the junction between the main stem and a leaf branch. If too many are left on the plant, it can become crowded, with fruit competing for light, air, and energy.

Poor light access can also slow ripening, especially on the larger tomatoes. To help with this, remove some of the extra leaves and laterals so more sunlight can reach the developing fruit.

Tomatoes also require a lot of water espeically around fruiting time and during the hotter weather. Water deeply two to three times a week, even if there has been some rain, as irregular watering can affect fruit development and ripening.

Feed your tomato plants with Garden Time Tomato Fertiliser every 3-4 weeks right throughout the growing period. Add a good layer of Premium Mulch & Feed on top to help conserve water and keep moisture in the soil.

Top tip: When pruning your tomato plant use sharp secateurs and ensure they are clean before you start to avoid spreading diseases.