How to Plant Cherry Tomato

Cherry tomatoes are delicious, nutritious, and easy to grow. Here's how to plant them:

Choose the Right Location

Cherry tomatoes need plenty of sunlight, so choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. They also need well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy clay, improve it by adding compost, peat moss, or sand. Avoid planting cherry tomatoes in low-lying areas that tend to get waterlogged.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting, work the soil to a depth of about 12 inches with a garden fork or tiller. Add organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or shredded leaves to improve soil structure, drainage, and fertility. You may also want to add a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or a slow-release fertilizer that will feed your plants throughout the growing season.

Plant the Seedlings

If you're starting with seedlings, plant them at the same depth they were in their containers, with about 2 feet of space between plants. If you're starting from seed, plant them 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in small pots or seed trays, and transplant them outdoors when they have two to four true leaves and the weather is warm and stable. Be sure to water your seedlings regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Provide Support

Cherry tomatoes are indeterminate plants, which means they grow tall and need support to keep them upright. You can use stakes, cages, or trellises to support your plants. Choose a method that suits your space, style, and budget. Stakes are simple and inexpensive but may require tying or pruning the plants to keep them on track. Cages are easy to use and provide a lot of support, but may take up more space and make harvesting more difficult. Trellises are versatile and can be tailored to your needs, but may require more effort to install and maintain.

Care for Your Plants

Water your cherry tomatoes deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots, and avoid getting the foliage wet, which can promote disease. Mulch your plants with straw, leaves, or grass clippings to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Fertilize your plants every 3 to 4 weeks with a water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer, following package instructions. Prune your plants to remove suckers, which are shoots that grow between the stem and the branches, and to promote good airflow and light penetration. Remove any yellow, diseased, or damaged leaves to prevent the spread of diseases.

Harvest Your Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes usually take 60 to 70 days to mature, depending on the variety and the growing conditions. Pick your tomatoes when they're fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. Store them at room temperature, out of direct sunlight, for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Enjoy them fresh in salads, sandwiches, or as a healthy snack.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious cherry tomatoes all season long. Happy planting!