How to Plant Sweet 100 Tomatoes
If you are looking for a sweet and juicy snack that you can grow in your own backyard, the Sweet 100 tomato is a great option. This cherry tomato variety is a prolific producer, yielding abundant fruit throughout the growing season. Here’s how you can successfully grow and harvest Sweet 100 tomatoes:
Choose the Right Location
Before you plant your Sweet 100 tomato seedling, choose the perfect location in your garden. This tomato variety needs full sun, so select a spot that is exposed to at least seven hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to make it more fertile.
Prepare the Soil
Next, prepare the soil for planting. Remove any weeds and debris from the area, and turn the soil over to a depth of at least six inches. Break up any clumps of soil and incorporate your chosen soil amendment. Afterward, rake the soil surface smooth and level it out.
Plant the Seedlings
When planting Sweet 100 tomatoes, choose seedlings that are about six weeks old. Dig a hole for each seedling that is slightly deeper and wider than the roots. Place the tomato seedling in the hole and fill the hole with soil, pressing down gently to make sure the soil is in contact with the roots. Water the seedling thoroughly to help settle the soil.
Provide Adequate Water and Fertilizer
Tomatoes need consistent moisture to thrive. Water your Sweet 100 tomatoes regularly, especially during dry spells. Be careful not to water excessively, though, which can lead to root rot. As for fertilizing, apply a balanced fertilizer once the flowers appear. You can use a slow-release fertilizer for continuous feeding or a water-soluble one for a quick boost.
Vine Maintenance
To keep your Sweet 100 tomato vines healthy and well-managed, it is important to prune them regularly. Remove the suckers, which are the small shoots that emerge from the crotch between the main stem and the branches. Pinch or trim these suckers off to promote good airflow and sunlight penetration. Additionally, use stakes or cages to support the plants and prevent them from falling over as they grow.
Harvesting Your Sweet 100 Tomatoes
Sweet 100 tomatoes usually ripen about 60 days after planting, and they will continue to produce abundant fruit until the first frost. You can determine when your tomatoes are ready for harvest by checking the color, firmness, and taste. The fruit should be bright red, slightly soft to the touch, and sweet when tasted. Pick the tomatoes off the vine gently and enjoy them fresh, in salads, or as a quick snack.
By following these simple tips, you can plan, plant, and grow your own Sweet 100 tomatoes. Have fun nurturing your vines, and enjoy the sweet and juicy reward of your hard work!