Low yield from tomato plants

[Paul35]

I planted beefsteak tomatoes. The plants grew vigorously, but fruits were few. Is there a soil deficiency, or too much or too little watering or any other reason?

[Clanad]

If the plant grows well as you mention, it shouldn't be a problem with fertilization. Rather, were there blossoms that fell off or didn't make fruit? If so, it would be especially noticeable on early flowers when the grower is anxious for fruit to set for an early harvest. The problem occurs when night temperatures are lower than 55 degrees F; when day temperatures are higher than 95 degrees; or when night temperatures remain above 75 degrees. Hot drying winds may intensify the problem. (Source: University of Missouri Extension). If you experienced these conditions it may be the culprit... Keep in mind that tomatoes are mainly water, so regular watering is a must... at least an inch per week applied heavily rather than several light waterings...

[WendyS]

I think Clanad is right in that too low a temperature early on, or lack of water might be a problem. However, I have grown various varities of tomatoes over the years (outdoors in the UK) and have found that cropping on the beefsteak variety was always disappointing in comparison with the others, so no longer grow it. All tomatoes like to have their roots in plenty of good compost so if your soil is a bit thin and lacking in this, that may have been a contributing factor. Cherry tomatoes always seem to crop well (at least in my garden).

[Paul35]

Thank you very much for your helpful answers. Here in California we still experience 50 F nights i the month of June. So I understand now the reason for low yield.