How to Plant Tomatoes

By Susan M. Keenan

Tomatoes, available in over 25,000 varieties and several colors, are easy to plant and grow. Typically, the varieties that grow best in your area will be sold in your area. You can always consult a garden book, website, or seed catalog for more information on various varieties of tomatoes.

Step by Step Instructions for Planting Tomatoes:

1. After the potential danger of frost in your area has passed, purchase your tomato plants. If you are growing your plants from seed, start at least six to eight weeks before the last frost is expected.
   
   
2. Adjust your tomato plants to the outdoors before planting them. Place them outside during the day once the weather warms up and the temperature consistently reaches 50°F. Once the nighttime temperatures consistently reach 50°F, place the plants outside fro the entire day and night.
   
   
3. Select the planting location. Tomatoes need lots of sun. Therefore, you need to select an area that receives full sun. Ideally, the soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
   
   
4. Prepare the soil by adding fertilizer or compost since tomatoes prefer soil that is rich in organic matter.
   
   
5. Plants should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches from each other. Check the information that came with your plants or seed packet to determine the exact spacing required for your variety of tomato.
   
   
6. Dig a hole for the plant. The hole should be about the size of a full size soccer ball.
   
   
7. Once the plants begin to bear flowers, they are ready to be planted in the outside plot. Place the tomato plant in the hole and gently fill the remaining area with a mixture of soil and compost or fertilizer. Firm the soil around the base of the plant. If you plant the tomato plant deeply, you will encourage the growth of the roots. It is okay to cover the branches of your plant as long as you allow the top four branches to remain above the surface of the ground.
   
   
8. Precautionary measures can be taken as well to protect your plant. Place a paper collar at the base of each tomato plant to deter cutworms.
   
   
9. Place a stake, tomato cage, or small trellis next to each plant. As the tomato plant grows, secure it loosely with soft twine. Check the ties periodically as the plant grows and adjust them accordingly. If the tie becomes too restrictive, loosen it.
   
   
10. Water your plants on a regular basis. Pick the fruits as they ripen.

Read on for more tips on Growing Great Tomatoes. >

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