How to Plant Tomato Starts

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in home gardens. They are relatively easy to grow and provide a bountiful harvest. In order to get the most of your tomato plants, it's important to start them off right. Here's how to plant tomato starts:

Choose the Right Location

The first step is to choose the right location for your tomato plants. Tomatoes need plenty of sunlight, at least six hours a day, and a well-draining soil. Choose a location in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight, and if your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.

Prepare the Soil

Before you plant your tomato starts, prepare the soil. Remove any weeds, rocks, or other debris. Then, add a layer of compost or other organic matter to the soil, and mix it in with a garden fork or tiller. This will improve soil fertility and drainage, which will help your tomato plants thrive.

Plant Your Tomato Starts

When you're ready to plant your tomato starts, dig a hole in the prepared soil that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Remove your plant from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole, making sure it's level with the soil surface. Then, backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently around the plant.

Water Your Tomato Plants

After you've planted your tomato starts, water them well. This will help settle the soil around the roots and provide the plant with enough water to get started. Make sure to water your tomato plants regularly, especially in hot, dry weather. Water deeply, so the water reaches the roots, but don't overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Fertilize Your Tomato Plants

To keep your tomato plants healthy, it's important to fertilize them regularly. You can use a fertilizer specially formulated for tomatoes, or a general-purpose fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for how often and how much to fertilize. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage your plants.

Stake Your Tomato Plants

Most tomato plants need to be staked or supported in some way, especially indeterminate varieties that continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. You can use bamboo stakes, tomato cages, or other supports to keep your plants upright. Place the stake or support in the ground near the plant when it's still small, so you don't damage the roots later on.

Watch for Pests and Diseases

Tomato plants are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, such as aphids, tomato hornworms, and blight. Keep an eye on your plants for any signs of trouble, and take action as needed. There are many organic and natural remedies for these problems, such as insecticidal soap and neem oil.

Harvest Your Tomatoes

When your tomato plants start to produce fruit, it's time to harvest. Most tomatoes are ready when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist the tomato off the vine, or use scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem. Enjoy your harvest as fresh tomatoes, or preserve them by canning, freezing, or drying.

By following these steps, you can plant tomato starts and grow healthy, productive plants in your garden. With a little effort and care, you'll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes.