Do You Plant Tomatoes in Hills?

Tomatoes are an incredibly versatile and tasty fruit that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. They are also relatively easy to grow, making them a popular choice for home gardeners. However, if you're new to gardening, you may be wondering how to best plant your tomatoes. One common question that arises is whether or not you should plant tomatoes in hills.

What Are Hills?

When it comes to gardening, a hill is a raised mound of soil. Planting in hills is a popular technique for crops like cucumbers, squash, and melons. The idea behind planting in hills is that it creates a raised area for the plants to grow on that provides good drainage and helps prevent soil-borne diseases.

Tomatoes and Hills

So, do you plant tomatoes in hills? The answer is no, not really. While planting in hills may be beneficial for certain crops, it's not necessary for tomatoes. Tomatoes are better off planted in rows rather than hills.

One reason for this is that tomatoes don't prefer the well-drained soil that hills provide. In fact, they prefer a slightly moist soil that is rich in organic matter. Planting tomatoes in hills can cause the soil to dry out too quickly, which can lead to stress for the plants and a decrease in yield.

Additionally, planting in rows allows for more efficient use of garden space. You can fit more tomato plants in a row than you can in a hill, which means you'll have a higher yield in the same amount of space.

How to Plant Tomatoes in Rows

Now that you know that planting in rows is the best way to grow tomatoes, here are some tips on how to do it:

Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.

Till the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches and add compost or other organic matter if needed.

Plant your tomato seedlings in rows that are about 3 feet apart.

Space the plants about 18-24 inches apart within the rows.

Water the plants thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season.

As the plants grow, add support like stakes or cages to keep them upright and ensure they have enough space to grow.

In Conclusion

While planting in hills may be a common technique for some crops, it's not necessary or recommended for tomatoes. Instead, plant your tomatoes in rows to provide them with the moist, nutrient-rich soil they need to grow and produce a healthy crop.

By following the tips outlined above, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, homegrown tomatoes.