How to Plant Hanging Tomato

Tomatoes are not only a delicious fruit but also easy to grow; however, planting them in limited space can be quite challenging. That's where the hanging tomato comes in - this innovative method makes use of the vertical space in your garden or porch to grow your favorite fruit. Here's how to plant hanging tomato:

Choose the Right Tomato Variety

First and foremost, you need to select a tomato variety that can grow successfully in a hanging basket. Some common varieties that work well include cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, and determinate tomatoes. Determinate tomatoes are preferred because they grow to a certain height and stop, making them easier to maintain in a hanging basket.

Select a Suitable Container

The container you choose for your hanging tomato plant should have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water accumulation. It's also advisable to use a light container or a plastic pot as they are easier to move around. Hanging baskets with coconut coir liners are an excellent option as they enable better drainage and root aeration.

Prepare the Soil Mix

You need to create a soil mix that provides sufficient nutrients while allowing for good drainage. A good soil mix to use for hanging tomatoes is a combination of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss in equal amounts. Consider adding some slow-release fertilizer pellets to the soil mix to provide a steady supply of nutrients to the plant.

Plant the Tomato

Fill the container with the soil mix, leaving about 2 inches of space at the top. Dig a shallow hole in the center, add some more soil mix, and plant the tomato seedling. Gently press the soil around the seedling to firm it up. Add a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.

Care for the Plant

Once your plant is established, you need to take good care of it to ensure that it grows strong and healthy. Water the plant regularly, making sure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Pinch off any suckers that appear between the main stem and the leaves to help channel more nutrients to the fruit.

Conclusion

Now you know how to plant hanging tomato, a technique that will help you grow tomatoes in a small space. With the right tomato variety, container, soil mix, and care, you can have a bountiful harvest of juicy, flavorful tomatoes all season long.