My tomato plant isn't growing

I transplanted it into a half barrel planter over a month ago. It's either Phoenix or Florida 91 variety (can't remember). I've been pruning off suckers to keep to one stem. But it's not growing. THere are some flowers, but they are just lingering. I put mulch in pot and it's getting water and sun - do I need to fertilize? If so, can anyone recommend a brand/type? THe easier the better because I work a lot. Thanks!

I"ll try and add pics later today or tomorrow

Hi, Cwade504!

I'm an expat New Orleanian, now growing veggies in Houston. There is another grower in your Zone 9a (Jomoncon) who has a fantastic veggie garden. Check out her posts and follow her upcoming fall/winter growing schedule. Make her acquaintance. She might live very near to you.

Regarding your tomato plant. Most growers are winding down the tomato growing, as the season is about to change to fall/winter. Tomato are heat lovers. Unless that plant is well established and full of blooms at this point, I'd say don't bother trying to coax it along -- the weather might cool off before it has time to produce.

Now, you say you transplanted it -- exactly how big is it? If it was already established, and you just moved it to the barrel, it might produce if it's far enough along....

It's still pretty hot out (here and there), and your plant may be stalling because of the heat. Just keep it comfortable as you can. Put some sort of shade cover over it, if possible, and keep it evenly watered. You can use a balanced fertilizer like a Triple 13 (13-13-13), and add some compost around the perimeter. It wouldn't hurt to throw a little lime around it, too, maybe about 2-3 Tbsps. and water that in, as well. Do NOT add too much nitrogen, or you'll end up with lush greenery and no fruits....

Once the weather starts cooling off, the plant should perk up. If there's time before the first consistent dips below 50-45° or so, you might just get some fruits before the frost kills it off.

You might wanna start following us over on our Fall/Winter Gardens 2014 thread, since the fall/winter gardens are revving up. I have "cole" crop seedlings growing inside under $12 fluorescent shop lights I bought at Home Depot.

Come on along for the ride, lurk and learn. Ask questions. No question is stupid. We'll help yah get your garden started.

http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1372389/

Linda ^^_^^^^_^^

Just on a side note. Tomato and pepper plants are still for sale here so there might stil be time to get a crop in before it freezes.....Cwade-there are many reasons why it may not be growing but if you transplanted it over a month ago it should be doing something...you don't say what soil you transplanted into it couldn't hurt to add some fertilizer. Miracle Grow should be OK, just follow the directions.