How to Plant Cherry Tomatoes from Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden or balcony. While you can buy seedlings from a nursery, you can also grow cherry tomatoes from tomatoes you already have on hand. This guide will walk you through the steps to plant cherry tomatoes from tomatoes.

Choose a Tomato

The first step in planting cherry tomatoes from tomatoes is to choose a ripe, juicy tomato. Look for a tomato that is red, or mostly red with a tinge of green on the stem. Give the tomato a gentle squeeze to check for ripeness, it should be just slightly soft to the touch.

Prepare the Tomato

Cut the tomato in half and gently scoop out the seeds and any seed gel. Rinse the seeds in a fine-mesh sieve under cool water, separating out any remaining seed gel. Spread the seeds out on a paper towel and pat dry, removing any excess moisture.

Let the Seeds Dry

Lay the seeds on a paper towel and let them dry for a day or two. This will prevent them from sticking together when you plant them. Make sure the seeds are in a well-ventilated area and out of direct sunlight.

Plant the Seeds

Fill a seed tray with potting soil or seed-starting mix. Make small holes, roughly 1/4-inch deep, and 1 inch apart. Place a seed in each hole and cover lightly with soil. Water gently with a spray bottle, being careful not to wash away the seeds or soil.

Care for Your Seedlings

Once your seeds have sprouted, keep them in a warm, sunny spot indoors. Keep the soil moist but not overly wet, and provide regular ventilation by opening a window or using a fan. When your seedlings are about 2 inches tall, you can transfer them to a larger pot or move them outside if the weather is warm enough.

Conclusion

Planting cherry tomatoes from tomatoes is a simple and fun way to add some variety to your garden or balcony. With a little bit of patience and care, you can grow your own delicious cherry tomatoes and enjoy them for months to come. Happy planting!