How to Plant Sweet 100 Tomato
Sweet 100 tomato is a popular tomato variety for its sweet and juicy flavor. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant sweet 100 tomato:
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Tomatoes need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight, so choose a spot in your garden that is exposed to sunlight. Also, make sure that the soil is well-drained and has a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test your soil’s pH level with a pH meter or test kit.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Before planting, prepare the soil by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve the soil’s fertility and drainage. You can also add some granular fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium to encourage root growth and flower development.
Step 3: Plant the Seedlings
First, dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the entire seedling. Then, remove the seedling from its container and gently loosen the soil around its roots. Plant the seedling in the hole and cover it with soil, making sure to leave the top quarter of the stem above the soil. This will prevent the stem from rotting and promote the growth of new roots.
Step 4: Water the Seedlings
After planting, water the seedlings thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. One way to check if your tomato plant needs watering is to stick your finger 1 inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Step 5: Support the Plants
As the tomato plant grows, it will need support to prevent it from falling over. You can use stakes or tomato cages to support the plants. Staking involves driving a sturdy wooden or metal stake into the ground next to each plant and tying the stem to the stake with a soft material, such as twine or string. Tomato cages are made of wire mesh and are placed around the stem of each plant to support the branches.
Step 6: Prune the Plants
Pruning helps to promote airflow and sunlight penetration, which can improve the flavor and ripening of the fruit. To prune your tomato plant, remove any suckers – the small shoots that grow between the main stem and the leaves. You can also remove the lower leaves that touch the ground.
Step 7: Harvest the Tomatoes
Sweet 100 tomatoes can be harvested when they are red and fully ripe. Gently twist the tomato from the stem to pick it. Don’t pull it off or you may damage the stem or the fruit.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet 100 tomatoes throughout the growing season.