How to Grow Grape Tomato Plants

Grape tomatoes are a popular snack and a great addition to salads and pasta dishes. Growing grape tomato plants at home is easy and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to produce juicy and flavorful grape tomatoes in your own backyard.

Choose the Right Location

Grape tomato plants require at least six hours of sunlight per day, so choose a location that receives full sun exposure. Additionally, the soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. If your soil is poor, consider adding compost or fertilizer before planting.

Plant the Seeds

Sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Use a seed starting mix and plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves, transplant them to larger pots or containers.

Transplant the Seedlings

After the last frost, transplant the seedlings to their permanent location. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and place the plant in the hole. Cover the roots with soil and gently press the soil around the base of the stem. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.

Caring for the Plants

Keep the plants well-watered, but avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent disease. Mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Additionally, prune the plant by removing the suckers that develop in the joint where the leaf stem meets the main stem. This will encourage the plant to produce more fruit.

Harvesting Grape Tomatoes

Grape tomatoes typically ripen 65-80 days after planting. When the tomatoes are fully ripe, they will be plump and slightly soft to the touch. Harvest the tomatoes by gently twisting them off the vine. Avoid pulling the tomatoes off or cutting them from the vine, as this can damage the plant.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can grow delicious and healthy grape tomatoes in your own backyard. With a little care and attention, your grape tomato plants will produce a bountiful harvest that you can enjoy all summer long.