How to Plant Trailing Tomatoes

Tomatoes have always been a favorite among gardeners, and planting trailing tomatoes can create a beautiful and bountiful garden. However, growing trailing tomatoes can be a little tricky. Here are some tips and techniques for planting and maintaining these delicious vegetables.

Choosing the Right Variety

Before planting trailing tomatoes, it's important to choose the right variety. Trailing tomatoes grow best in hanging baskets, pots and raised beds. The most common varieties that work well for trailing include cherry tomato varieties like the Tumbling Tom Red and Yellow, and the Sweetheart of the Patio. Determinate varieties are also good options since they don't grow too tall, making them easy to maintain.

Planting Techniques

When it comes to planting trailing tomatoes, there are a few techniques you can use to make sure they grow properly. First, start with good quality soil. Choose a well-drained soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Add some perlite to the soil to improve drainage and aeration.

When planting the tomatoes, make sure they are spaced at least six inches apart. This allows enough room for the plants to grow out and fill the containers properly. Also, make sure to plant trailing tomatoes in an area where they will get plenty of sun. Tomatoes need at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day to thrive.

Maintenance Tips

Maintaining trailing tomatoes can be a bit more challenging than traditional tomato plants. During the growing season, make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so be careful not to let the soil stay too wet for too long.

Fertilize the plants every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer that is low in nitrogen. You can also use a liquid tomato fertilizer specifically formulated for growing tomatoes. Be sure to prune the plants regularly, especially if they are growing in containers. This helps to maintain their shape and encourages the plants to produce more fruit.

Harvesting and Storage

Trailing tomatoes can be harvested once the tomatoes have turned a deep, rich color and feel slightly soft to the touch. Simply remove them from the vine and store them in a cool, dry place until ready to use. You can also preserve them by canning, freezing, or dehydrating them for later use in sauces, salads, or other dishes.

In summary, growing trailing tomatoes can be a rewarding experience if you follow these tips and techniques. Choose the right variety, plant them properly, and maintain them carefully. Then, sit back and enjoy the beauty and flavor of your very own homegrown tomatoes.