HOW TO GROW TOMATOES - A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO PRODUCING TOMATOES

Tomatoes can be one of the easiest plants to grow when you know how
But putting your plant in the wrong environment or soil can quickly kill it
Luckily, these plant experts shared their guide on how to grow your own

Growing your own food at home can feel overwhelming as a beginner, especially if you're not equipped with the right expertise or gardening material.

Luckily, plant experts say sowing and growing your own tomatoes could not be easier and can even be grown from inside your house.

Tomatoes seeds can be sourced easily and you can choose from a variety of types including, plum, cherry and Campari, each with its own specific flavour and use.

According to plant experts these tips will help you grow your tomato plant perfectly.

How to grow tomatoes

Holly Jones, a plant expert at Garden Street, advised tomatoes need a sunny warm area to grow and can be grown covered or uncovered.

One of the main mistakes of growing tomatoes is planting them at the wrong time, according to Ms Jones.

Though they can be grown all year, the best time to sow tomato seeds is between March and April, approximately 6-8 weeks before final frost.

What different types of tomatoes are there?

Tomatoes are split into two main growing groups including determinate (bush) and indeterminate (cordon).

The former are usually planted in pots or hanging baskets and the latter are trained to grow tall.

Millie Rawsthorne, plant expert at Prestige Flowers, agreed, telling MailOnline: 'Where you put the plant should be carefully considered.'

'If growing indoors, make sure the plant receives around eight hours of sunlight per day and wait until the seedlings are around five inches tall before you transfer them outside.'

'The seeds need to be sown in plenty of time for them to grow in a warmer climate. Planting them too early or too late can be detrimental to their growth,' Ms Jones added.

'Use rich, fertile soil like sandy loam to ensure the tomatoes are getting enough minerals and nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium.'

Ms Rawsthorne added rich fertile soil or peat-free potting compost will help the tomato plant thrive.

How to save a dying tomato plant

Trying to recover a dying plant can be a difficult task but luckily, gardening experts have shared their tips to recoup your tomato plant.

To ensure your plant stays alive, move it to a sheltered but sunny spot and water it regularly.

'If growing cordon tomatoes, then use a stake to support the plant .'

Ms Jones added: 'Make sure you're not under or overwatering it and ensure the plant is able to drain properly.'

It is also advised that tomato plants need around one to two inches of water per week for 'optimal growing'.

'It's best to do this once a week rather than add little bits daily in order to promote healthy roots,' Ms Rawsthorne said.

How to avoid beginner mistakes

There are a number of mistakes to avoid when growing a tomato plant as a beginner which will help you grow more successfully.

Ms Jones said planting them at the wrong time and not using a stake to keep the plant upright can be detrimental to their growth.

She said not watering regularly is also a common issue. 'For tomato plants to thrive and for the tomatoes to taste their best, the soil needs to be consistently moist.'

When to harvest tomatoes

While planting tomatoes has a specific time range, you can harvest tomatoes between July and October after three months of growing.

Ms Rawsthorne said when the tomatoes are ready, the colour will begin to change and they will come off the vine easily.

'Don't be too downhearted if your first attempt doesn't go quite to plan - and don't let it put you off trying again.

'It can be incredibly satisfying to watch tomato plants bear fruit, knowing your time and effort has helped grow something beautiful and delicious,' she said.

2023-06-06T07:51:04Z dg43tfdfdgfd