whats the problem or is it a problem

[F420]

Phosphorus is necessary for seed germination, photosynthesis, protein formation and almost all aspects of growth and metabolism in plants. It is essential for flower and fruit formation. Low pH (<4) results in phosphate being chemically locked up in organic soils. Deficiency symptoms are purple stems and leaves; maturity and growth are retarded. Yields of fruit and flowers are poor. Premature drop of fruits and flowers may often occur. Phosphorus must be applied close to the plant's roots in order for the plant to utilize it. Large applications of phosphorus without adequate levels of zinc can cause a zinc deficiency.

 

http://retirees.uwaterloo.ca/~jerry/orchids/nutri.html

 

 

Symptoms:

Phosphorus deficiency is most often manifested as purpling of the leaves, particularly the leaf veins. In severe cases the whole plant may take on a purple hue. Tomato roots growing in cold soil, either in the greenhouse or the field, take up phosphorus poorly. Deficient plants lose vigor and yield poorly.

Control:

While phosphorus deficiency due to improper fertility may be a problem in hydroponic, pot culture, and some sandy soil conditions, it is most likely a result of cool root zone temperatures. Plastic mulch will alleviate the problem in early field plantings, and a balanced liquid feed fertilizer will alleviate the problem in greenhouse and pot culture.

 

http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/tomatop...eaves/pdef.html

 

 

 

I think the cold roots have locked out the Phosphorus.

 

[Tom]

Or do you think these are getting below zero temps?

Yeah, they are in tassie, they'll probably be getting ice on the roof of the shed some nights. ::

 

[maxgrow]

Yeah, they are in tassie, they'll probably be getting ice on the roof of the shed some nights.  ::

 

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hahahaha - probably right Tom