How to Plant a Topsy Turvy Tomato Planter
Growing tomatoes is a popular pastime for many gardeners. If you’re short on space, time or resources, the topsy turvy tomato planter can be a perfect solution. It’s a unique and space-saving way to grow juicy and succulent tomatoes without the hassle of traditional planting methods. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to successfully plant a topsy turvy tomato planter.
Choose Your Planter
The first step in planting a topsy turvy tomato planter is to choose the right planter for your needs. The planter should be sturdy and weather-resistant, so it can withstand the elements. You can find topsy turvy tomato planters online or at your local gardening supply store.
Choose Your Tomatoes
Choosing the right tomato variety is essential for successful topsy turvy tomato planter gardening. Select a variety that is compatible with the planter, especially one with a smaller root system. Determinate or bush varieties, which grow to be only 3–4 feet tall, are ideal for topsy turvy planters.
Prep Your Planter
Before you begin planting, give your planter a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, debris or cobwebs that may have accumulated during storage. Fill the planter with a high-quality potting mix, ensuring that it is firm but not compacted.
Plant Your Tomato
Next, you will need to plant your tomato in the topsy turvy planter. First, remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen any tangled roots. Insert the roots through the hole in the bottom of the planter until the root ball sits snugly on the soil. Fill the planter with soil around the base of the plant until it’s level with the bottom of the hole.
Water and Fertilize
Water your plant thoroughly after planting and then when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry. Fertilize your plant with a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Be sure to use a low-nitrogen fertilizer for optimum fruit production.
Provide Adequate Sunlight
Tomatoes need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so it’s important to place your topsy turvy planter in a location that receives a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily. If your plant isn't getting enough light, you may notice it growing tall and lanky, with fewer flowers and fruit.
Prune and Support
As your tomato plant grows, you may need to prune it to control its size and shape. Remove any suckers that grow between the main stem and the side branches. If your tomato plant begins to outgrow the planter, provide additional support by tying it to a stake or trellis.
Harvest Your Tomatoes
After 60–80 days of planting, your tomato plant should begin producing fruit. Harvest the tomatoes when they are fully ripened and bright red. Enjoy your fresh, juicy and organic tomatoes from your topsy turvy planter!
Conclusion
The topsy turvy tomato planter offers a unique alternative to traditional tomato planting. With its space-saving design and easy-to-use features, you can enjoy juicy tomatoes with minimal effort. By following these simple steps, you can plant your topsy turvy tomato planter and start harvesting delicious tomatoes in no time!