Will Tomato Plants Grow in a Pot?

Tomatoes are a favourite fruit for many gardeners and home growers. Growing tomatoes in a garden bed is ideal for plants that have plenty of space to spread out, uptake water and nutrients and get ample sunlight. However, not everyone has access to land to plant a garden bed. Growing tomato plants in a pot is a great way to have fresh tomatoes and also save space. The question is, will tomato plants grow in a pot?

The Short Answer is "Yes!"

Tomatoes can and will grow in a pot, as long as they receive the proper care and attention. Growing plants in pots need more attention than plants in a garden bed, since potted plants have limited space to grow and uptake nutrients. If you follow the guidelines for growing tomatoes in pots, you can expect a healthy harvest of tasty tomatoes.

Choosing the Right Pot

The size of the pot you need depends on the size of the tomato plant that you want to grow. For medium-sized tomato plants, such as Roma or Cherry tomatoes, a pot that has a diameter of 12 to 18 inches and depth of 12 to 14 inches, is sufficient. For larger tomato plants, a pot that has a diameter of 18 to 20 inches and depth of 16 to 18 inches is ideal. Remember to choose a pot that has drainage holes for excess water to drain.

The Right Soil

The soil you use to plant tomato plants in a pot should be well-draining and nutrient rich. You can use potting mix, compost, and perlite mix to provide proper nutrition and suitable drainage. Fill the pot with the potting mix to about two-thirds of its depth. Create a hole in the center of the potting mix large enough to accommodate the tomato plant's root ball. You can now transfer the tomato plant into the pot.

The Right Care

Tomato plants grown in pots require the same care as tomato plants grown in garden beds, but with a bit more attention, since potted plants have limited space to grow. Water tomato plants as soon as the top inch of the soil feels dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so ensure proper drainage of the pot, and be careful not to let water sit in the saucer beneath it. Feed tomato plants every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

The Right Sunlight

Tomatoes need plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruit. Tomato plants require a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight every day, so it's essential to place the pot in a location that receives full sun. If you live in an area with hot and dry summers, pay attention to the temperature and humidity levels, and adjust your watering and feeding schedule accordingly.

The Bottom Line

Tomatoes are a versatile and easy fruit to grow. Growing tomato plants in pots is not only an excellent way of saving space, but it's also a great way to grow tomatoes if you live in an apartment or condo. Just ensure that you use the right-size pot, provide the right soil, water and feed the plant adequately, and place the pot in a location with ample sunlight. With proper care, you can expect a healthy harvest of juicy and delicious tomatoes.