How to Plant Tomatoes in Greenhouse

Greenhouses are an excellent way to grow tomatoes all year round, regardless of weather conditions or the time of year. With proper planning and execution, planting tomatoes in a greenhouse can bring about high yields of delicious and juicy fruits. In this guide, we will show you step-by-step on how to plant tomatoes in a greenhouse.

Choose the Right Tomato Varieties

The first step to planting tomatoes in a greenhouse is selecting the right varieties. You need to consider the size, yield, taste, and growth habit of the tomatoes you wish to plant. Indeterminate tomatoes are the best for greenhouse gardening, as they are vigorous climbers and produce abundant fruit throughout the growing season. Examples of indeterminate tomatoes include cherry tomatoes, beefsteak, and Roma tomatoes.

Prepare the Greenhouse

The next step is to prepare the greenhouse for the tomato plants. Start by cleaning the greenhouse, removing any debris or dead plants that may harbor diseases or pests. After that, disinfect the greenhouse with a suitable fungicide or pesticide to kill any pathogens or insects that may be present. Also, ensure that the greenhouse has adequate ventilation, and shade cloth to regulate the temperature and light intensity.

Plant the Tomatoes

Prepare the soil mix for growing the tomatoes by mixing peat moss, perlite, and screened compost in a ratio of 1:1:1. Fill the planting containers or beds with the prepared soil mix, leaving about an inch of headspace. Then, transplant the tomato seedlings into the containers, burying them up to their first true leaves. Water the soil thoroughly after planting, and cover the surface with mulch to keep the moisture in.

Watering and Fertilizing

Tomato plants require adequate water and nutrients to grow and produce healthy fruits. In the greenhouse, water the tomatoes regularly, making sure not to overwater or underwater. You can use a drip irrigation system or a watering can to deliver water at the base of the plants. Also, fertilize the tomatoes with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Pruning and Training

To maximize the yield and quality of your tomatoes in the greenhouse, you need to prune and train them properly. Remove the suckers that grow between the main stem and the side branches of the tomatoes, as they drain the nutrients and energy from the plant. Also, tie the tomato plants to stakes or trellises to support their growth and prevent them from falling over. You can use a soft twine or plant tape to tie the stems to the support structure.

Disease and Pest Control

Greenhouses can be prone to diseases and pests that can cause damage to the tomato plants. To prevent or control these problems, you need to maintain proper hygiene in the greenhouse, such as keeping the floor clean, removing debris, and wiping the surfaces with a disinfectant. Also, monitor the tomato plants regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation, and treat them with appropriate pesticides or fungicides if necessary.

Harvesting and Storing

The final step in growing tomatoes in the greenhouse is harvesting and storing the fruits for later use. Harvest the tomatoes when they are fully ripe, firm, and brightly colored. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the stem, and be careful not to damage the other fruits. After harvesting, store the tomatoes in a cool and dry place or use them immediately for cooking or eating.

In conclusion, growing tomatoes in a greenhouse is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, provided you follow these guidelines on how to plant tomatoes in a greenhouse. By choosing the right varieties, preparing the greenhouse, watering and fertilizing, pruning and training, and controlling pests and diseases, you can grow healthy and juicy tomatoes all year round.