How Deep to Plant Out Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a summer garden staple and it's important to plant them properly to set them up for success. One of the key factors in planting tomatoes correctly is the depth. So, how deep should you plant tomatoes? Let's take a look at the answer.

The Rule of Thumb

The general rule of thumb for planting tomatoes is to bury two-thirds of the stem in the soil. This means that if your tomato seedling is six inches tall, four inches of it should be buried in the soil. Why is this important? When you bury part of the stem, it will sprout roots along the buried part. This creates a stronger root system and helps the plant absorb more water and nutrients.

But, keep in mind that burying too much of the stem can be detrimental. If you bury the entire stem, the plant may struggle to break through the soil and sprout. This could cause it to rot before it ever gets a chance to grow. Additionally, burying too much of the stem can create too much soil contact, which can lead to disease.

The Exceptions

While burying two-thirds of the stem is a good rule of thumb, there are some exceptions. If your soil is particularly heavy or prone to waterlogging, you may want to plant your tomatoes a little shallower. In this case, burying half of the stem may be sufficient. This will help the roots to establish without drowning.

On the other hand, if your soil is sandy or prone to drying out, you may want to plant your tomatoes a little deeper. In this case, burying three-quarters of the stem may be beneficial. This will help the plant establish a stronger root system that can reach deeper for moisture.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to planting tomatoes, the key is to bury two-thirds of the stem. However, you should also take your soil type into consideration. If your soil is heavy, plant a little shallower. If your soil is sandy, plant a little deeper. With the right planting technique, your tomato plant should thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.