By Benedict Vanheems | 6 May 2023
Nothing says summer like the taste of homegrown tomatoes. As the weather warms, it’s the perfect time to start planting. Discover five expert tips for growing tomatoes that will leave your garden thriving—and your taste buds delighted.
1. Harden Off Seedlings Before Planting
Transitioning tomato seedlings from indoor conditions to the great outdoors requires careful preparation to avoid shock from sunlight, wind, or fluctuating temperatures. This process, called hardening off, takes about a week. Start by placing seedlings in a sheltered spot outdoors for a few hours daily, gradually increasing their exposure as planting day nears.
Don’t have seedlings? No problem! Quality tomato plants are readily available at nurseries and garden centers. Choose healthy, green plants free of discoloration and pests, and harden them off before planting to ensure they thrive.
2. Master the Art of Planting
Tomatoes thrive in warm, sunny locations. Choose a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily—more is even better! For optimal soil health, enrich the planting area weeks in advance with well-rotted organic matter. This creates nutrient-rich, well-draining, moisture-retentive soil that tomatoes love.
Plant seedlings 18 inches (45 cm) apart, with rows spaced 2 feet (60 cm) apart. Spacing ensures better light exposure, airflow, and disease prevention. For stronger roots, plant seedlings deeper than usual, burying a few inches of the stem. Tomatoes can grow roots along their stems, anchoring them securely and enhancing nutrient absorption.
3. Boost Growth with Fish Fertilizer
Using fish heads as fertilizer might sound unconventional, but this age-old practice delivers exceptional results. Rich in nutrients, fish heads decompose into the soil, feeding the tomato roots. Place fish heads in planting holes, cover them with soil to mask odors, and then plant your tomatoes. For a vegan alternative, comfrey leaves work just as well.
Finish with a watering of diluted liquid seaweed to boost transplant success. Once your plants begin flowering, feed them occasionally with tomato fertilizer or a homemade liquid feed for consistent growth.
4. Support Your Tomatoes
Tomato plants need proper support to prevent fruit rot and improve air circulation. Here’s how to tailor support to your tomato type:
- Determinate (bush) tomatoes: Use simple bamboo stakes or lightweight supports.
- Indeterminate (vining) tomatoes: These vigorous growers require tall, sturdy stakes or trellises. Tie stems as they grow, and prune side shoots to focus energy on fruit production.
Want a DIY solution? Make tomato cages using concrete reinforcing mesh or cattle fencing. Cut to size, shape into a cylinder, and secure with zip ties. Anchor cages with bamboo stakes for stability as plants grow.
5. Companion Planting for Success
Enhance your tomato garden with companion plants for beauty, pest control, and pollination:
- Marigolds deter whiteflies while adding vibrant color.
- Dill attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which prey on pests.
- Basil is the perfect culinary pairing and thrives alongside tomatoes.
With these five tips, your tomatoes will be the stars of your summer garden. Whether it’s the scent of sun-warmed fruit, the joy of a bountiful harvest, or the thrill of trying new gardening techniques, your tomato-growing journey is sure to be a rewarding one. Happy planting!