What was the temp? Was the soil dry? Were they the "seed leaves"? (they're supposed to die off). Otherwise, I don't have a clue. I've never seen that.

But if the toms are putting out new growth, they should be fine.

Karen

The leaves were plastered against the constantly wet inside of the upper container.

That's your answer. The sun comes through that wall and the wet plants on it will get steamed as they're closest to the source. The same thing happens with frost--any plant leaf touching the wall or roof will be effected. If you have new growth then there's no problem on the tomatoes, it's like they were pinched back.

If they reacted immediately to tops off, I wonder if it wasn't the wind. Wind can be as hard on plants that have been in a 'windless' environment as sun can be on those that haven't had any real sun. Do you have a way of opening vents or tops more gradually, or giving them some wind protection for a few days for those you haven't opened yet?

It sounds like your tomatoes are going to be fine, but as for the fertlizer....it can only correct a need for nutrients, it's not going to fix other problems :)

morz8, I believe you're right. Sunday, I brought some containers into the kitchen to remove the tops; some I let sit for a while, some I removed right away, and they all look perfect (though there are a few spotted leaves, which may have indeed been scorched). I fertilized them and let them stay inside until all the condensation on the leaves had dried, and they were more than happy to move back outside. I'll repeat this method with several others that need to be removed soon. Lesson learned.

When I say "fertilized", I mean "sprayed with seaweed", which tends to perk plants up in a matter of minutes. It's really amazing how quickly it works. :)