The Classic Art of Tomato Growing

Among serious and casual gardeners alike, you won’t find more controversy over anything else. Tomato growing is a fiercely debated topic. Everyone has their own secret way to raise tomatoes, and most will say outright that any other way simply won’t work. One thing is certain, though. Tomatoes are delicious, nutritious, and with a little work, you can raise them yourself with little or no experience.

Though many die-hard gardeners grow their tomatoes from seed, most start with tomato plants which are available at most nurseries, greenhouses, and home center mega-stores. Don’t let us stop you, though, if you want to start from seed! (In cool climates you’ll need to start them indoors in the winter and give them plenty of light.) Tomato seeds are easily acquired through seed catalogs or at plant stores.

The beloved tomato comes in a wide variety of hybrids. Choosing the right one will have an influence on your success. Talk to a knowledgeable salesperson or consult your county extension office to determine which tomato varieties will grow best in your area, with your soil type and your garden design.

Some hybrids do well in containers and can be raised on a patio or balcony. Some require lots of space and little competition. Some require supports and constant attention. Other hybrids don’t need as much water and care as others. Some are highly resistant to the long list of diseases which tomatoes are prone to contract.

The Basics

The basic rules of thumb when growing America’s favorite garden plant are:

• Start early, but don’t put into the ground until all danger of frost has passed.
• Plant the stem a few inches deep to give added support.
• Provide some sort of trellis or support to increase overall tomato harvest.
• Water regularly, as gaps in watering will cause cracked tomatoes.

Almost everyone you meet will give you advice on how best to grow tomatoes. You can take this advice with a grain of salt. Read as much as you can about tomatoes, choose the right hybrids, and be sensible and vigilant with your plants, and you should have delicious, ripe fruits that put supermarket tomatoes to shame!

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