Tomatoes are the most popular fruit grown in home gardens, prized for their delicious flavor and versatility. They are not only great for fresh eating but also for preserving, and they come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. This guide will help you learn how to select tomato seedlings, plant them in your LandGuard Garden Bed, and provide essential care tips for watering, fertilizing, and pruning, ensuring a healthy harvest. With some basic knowledge, even beginners can successfully grow tomatoes.
Starting Tomatoes: Seeds vs. Seedlings
Growing from Seedlings
Starting tomatoes from seedlings is ideal for beginners, as it saves time and eliminates the need for seed-starting supplies. While big box stores may have limited varieties, local farmers' markets often offer a wider selection, including heirloom options. If it’s your first year, focusing on seedlings allows you to learn the fundamentals of planting and care without the added complexity of seed starting.
Growing from Seeds
If you prefer specific or unusual tomato varieties, starting from seed may be the way to go. This option requires more time and resources but can be rewarding if you’re looking to expand your gardening knowledge. Consider this method if you aim for sustainability or self-sufficiency, or if you want to grow a large garden and save on seedling costs.
Best Time to Plant Tomatoes
Wait to plant your tomato transplants until after the last frost and when nighttime temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F), ideally 15°C (59°F). In cooler climates, this may be as late as mid-June. Planting too early can hinder growth, while later-planted tomatoes often catch up. Ensure you have enough time for your tomatoes to ripen, checking the “days to maturity” for your chosen variety.
Selecting and Buying Seedlings
When selecting tomato seedlings, look for:
- Short, stocky plants that are not leggy or wilted.
- Dark green leaves free from spots.
- Seedlings without blooms (remove any before transplanting).
- Healthy root systems that aren't circling the pot.
Always harden off seedlings before transplanting, especially if purchased from a non-specialized store.
Where to Plant Tomatoes
Tomatoes thrive in rich, well-drained soil with full sun exposure, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In warmer climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent blossom drop during high temperatures.
How to Plant Tomatoes in Your LandGuard Garden Bed
- Preparation: Ensure seedlings are hardened off, soil temperature is at least 10°C (50°F), and no frost is predicted.
- Timing: Transplant on a cloudy day or in the evening to help them adjust.
- Spacing: Space plants 18 to 36 inches apart, depending on the variety and your support method.
- Planting: Dig deep holes, adding compost and slow-release fertilizer. Remove the lower leaves from the seedlings and plant them deeply, covering the lower stem.
- Watering: Water thoroughly, directing moisture towards the roots while keeping foliage dry.
- Mulching: Apply mulch to protect the soil and reduce disease risk.
- Support: Set up stakes or cages at planting time to avoid damaging roots later.
Basic Care Tips for Tomato Plants
Tomatoes require consistent care for a successful harvest. Here are some essential tips:
- Watering: Aim for 1 to 2 inches of water per week, adjusting for hot weather. Water deeply 1-2 times a week, keeping the soil consistently moist without letting it dry out completely.
- Timing: Water early in the morning to reduce disease risk.
- Container Care: Tomatoes in containers may need daily watering and twice a day during extreme heat.
By following these guidelines and utilizing your LandGuard Garden Bed, you can cultivate a thriving tomato garden. Happy gardening
