Tony,
I would trim off only the lowest branches that may be touching the ground for a couple of reasons. First, they usually get eaten on by pests because they're so close to, or on the ground. Second, if they do bear fruit, that will usually take it to the ground since the fruit is very heavy. I do not do this to my peppers though, only tomatoes.
You need to water the plants only when they are dry. Water by hand and only at the base of the plant. Never spray your tomato plants and don't let a sprinkler hit them. Every few days I stick my finger a couple of inchaes into the soil by the base of the plants to gauge the moisture in the soil. If it's damp, I'll wait a day, if not, I'll water.
You shouldn't always water on a schedule, because this could lead to over-watering which will stress the plants and could cause a lot more headache. Plants in stress attract more pests and diseases.
Be sure and mulch heavily around all your plants to help retain moisture in the soil.
_________________ Sandi Texas Certified Nursery Professional Texas Master Naturalist Organic gardener Tree-Hugger Native Texan
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