And that's my next question: will my raised beds (inherited from the previous owner) work for tomatoes? they have a drip system but I can water by hand.
You have a "GARDENER'S HEAVEN" there for growing tomatoes.. Raised beds are wonderful for drainage.. and probably if they went to the work of putting in raised beds, did a good job with
the type of soil they put in..
****have you looked at the soil, felt it, looked at it's texture, color, smell???****
but for the drip irragation system that is heavenly to have for tomatoes.. tomatoes can get several soil borne disease's.. *nothing detramental to you.. just does stuff to the plant, and leaves.. you can still harvest the tomatoes..*
but what one of the thing that happens is, when a person waters, and the water splashes the dirt, and the dirt is then splashed up on the stem/leaves of the plant, that's sets into motion of how the plant becomes effected..
~~~~~~~~~>so, with that drip irragation, it cuts down dramatically the splashing..
Don't be over whelmed by what I said..
*and while you're learning all about tomatoes.
Go get a cuppa something to drink and do some reading here.. ther'es lot's.. especially here on the forum..
If you do a FORUM SEARCH and type in TOMATO you'll find a plethra of information..
Lot's of questions, you may not know to ask and things you'll learn..
on any of them, do not hesitate to ASK!!!
It's very encouraging to see how supportive everyone is.
Ther'es a ton of tomato growers here, alllll ready and more than willing to send and share their enthusiasm with you about tomatoes and gardening...
It really is a Cyber Gardening Family Community..
Not only will you find alot of support for your gardening, but just about everything else here too..