Tomatoes are a summertime treat and a must-have in the vegetable garden. 

By early May, most people have already planted tomato plants or are just now getting started. A lot of work and care is required to get to the point where one can pick a nice lush ripe backyard tomato. Managing insects and diseases is a significant chore, but mulching, watering and staking may be just as critical, if not more important.