Tomato

How to grow tomato

Light

Give at least eight hours of direct sun. Less light means fewer and later fruit.

Watering

Supply 1 to 2 in (2.5–5 cm) of water a week, delivered at the base. Even moisture is more important than quantity. Mulch 2 to 3 in deep to keep the soil from swinging between wet and dry.

Soil and feeding

Dig in plenty of compost. Feed at planting and again when the first fruits form, using a tomato fertilizer that is lower in nitrogen and higher in potassium.

Planting and pruning

Plant out after the last frost, when nights stay above 50°F (10°C). Bury the stem up to the first true leaves. Roots form along the buried stem. Space plants 2 to 3 ft (60–90 cm) apart and install stakes or cages at planting time. On indeterminate types, remove the side shoots that grow between leaf and stem.

Propagation

Sow seed indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost at about 75°F (24°C). Harden seedlings off for a week before planting out.

Common problems

Dark, sunken patch on the bottom of the fruit

Blossom end rot, caused by uneven watering that blocks calcium uptake. Water regularly and mulch. Later fruit is usually fine.

Brown spots with rings on lower leaves

Early blight. Remove affected leaves, mulch to stop soil splashing, and rotate crops each year.

Fruit splitting

Heavy rain or watering after a dry spell. Keep moisture even and pick fruit as it begins to color.

Questions about tomato

What is the difference between determinate and indeterminate tomatoes?

Determinate varieties grow to a fixed height, usually 3 to 4 ft, and ripen most of their fruit together. Indeterminate varieties keep growing and producing all season and need tall supports.

Can I grow tomatoes in pots?

Yes. Use a container of at least 5 gallons (20 liters) per plant, choose a determinate or patio variety, and water daily in hot weather.

Plant details

• Edible
• Grows in containers