How to Plant a Tomato Plant in a Topsy Turvy

Planting a tomato plant in a Topsy Turvy offers numerous advantages for gardeners with limited growing space. This innovative hanging planter makes it possible to grow tomatoes in a small area without having to worry about staking or caging the plant. It also helps to eliminate many of the common problems that can occur when growing tomatoes in the ground, such as pests and diseases. Here are the steps for successfully planting a tomato plant in a Topsy Turvy.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you get started, you will need to have all the necessary materials on hand. Here is what you will need:

A Topsy Turvy planter

A tomato plant

Small rocks or pebbles

Quality potting soil

Fertilizer

A watering can or hose

Step 2: Prepare the Topsy Turvy Planter

Remove the hook from the Topsy Turvy planter and fill it with small rocks or pebbles. This will help to improve drainage and prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. Next, fill the planter with quality potting soil, leaving a small space at the top for the tomato plant.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Plant

Remove the tomato plant from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place the plant in the Topsy Turvy planter, making sure that the stem is straight and centered, and the root ball is level with the top of the soil. Add more soil around the plant, firming it gently around the base of the stem.

Step 4: Fertilize the Plant

Once the plant is in place, add a slow-release granular fertilizer to the soil, making sure to follow the package directions for the correct amount. This will help to provide essential nutrients to the plant over the course of the growing season.

Step 5: Water the Plant

After fertilizing, water the plant thoroughly using a watering can or hose. Make sure that the water is distributed evenly and saturates the soil completely. During the growing season, be sure to water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Step 6: Hang the Planter

Once the tomato plant is securely in place and has been watered, hang the Topsy Turvy planter in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure that the planter is hung firmly and is not at risk of falling.

Step 7: Care for the Plant

During the growing season, it is important to care for the tomato plant by providing appropriate maintenance. This includes pruning the plant as needed, removing any yellow or diseased leaves, and pinching off any suckers that may form. Additionally, be sure to keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect tomatoes, such as aphids and blight.

Overall, by following these simple steps, you can successfully plant a tomato plant in a Topsy Turvy and enjoy delicious, homegrown tomatoes in a small space without the hassle of traditional planting methods.