So you want to grow tomatoes? Well the good news is that they are a hardy plant which is (relatively) simple to achieve good results with. The not so good news is that there are a staggering number of varieties and the choices can be a little overwhelming at the start.
So follow these five quick points which will help you get up and running quickly…
1) Start with a Determinate Variety: Although I love my Indeterminates there are a number of reasons why the new tomato gardener would be better off growing a Determinate variety to start with. They require less room, they generally don’t require pruning or staking and most of the Hybrid varieties you will find are Determinates.
2) Start with a hybrid: Hybrid varieties have been especially bred with certain traits in mind, not the least of which is disease resistance. Traditional pure strains may taste better but they can require a more experienced hand to guide them. Fortunately nowadays there are a number of decent tasting Hybrids so you should still be able to find a variety that will be acceptable to your palate.
3) Start with seedlings: Growing tomatoes from seed introduces a whole other set of complexities that the beginning gardener can do without. Start off by getting tomato seedlings from your local nursery. Tell them that you are starting out and ask their advice. Not only will it be easier to start you will also make a connection that could come in handy later if you run into trouble. Just make sure that the seedlings you buy are squat and solid looking not long and stringy.
4) Start in a Container: Start off by growing a tomato variety which can be grown in a pot (or and upside down planter). If you do this then you will be able to control your soil and location requirements far easier. Good soil and a good location are two of the major points to contend with when it comes to growing tomatoes. By growing them in containers you can exert far more control over each aspect. For heavens sake make sure that you use a big enough pot though… tomato roots can grow a long way so don’t cramp them.
5) Start with fertilizer: I truly believe that the best plants are grown using organic methods, however I consider organic farming an advanced topic and not one that I would recommend for the novice just starting out. Learn how to get a crop going and get an understanding of soil requirements, watering and tomato plant nutrition before you venture down the organic route.
By starting easy and getting a good grasp of the fundamentals you will be able to experience success whilst learning about your new hobby.