Growing tomatoes seeds are one of the chances any plant fanatics will want. To grab this you need to find a seed from a trusted commercial source. They are the ones capable of giving you the best. Seeds that are below 4 years old are suggested, its germination rate decrease by age.
A starter seed mix is favorable compared to garden soil. The soils from the garden are heavy and compact easily, as well as become a source of disease-causing organisms. Avoid using high fertilizer content in mix as well.
Once the seeds get warmth and moisture then it will most likely germinate. As soon as they are germinated then they should be placed in pots for initial growth. It is more preferable to use larger container that drains excess water. The number of plants you wish to grow will also determine the choice of container to use. Those who grow plants at home have a variety to choose from like plastic cups or Styrofoam. Anything will actually do as long as you can place a hole at the bottom to serve as water drainage.
With in 6-8 weeks, given with proper care a full grown tomato can be transplanted. The time to start putting your plants in container must be known before planting seed and you should not go wrong in planting tomatoes too early. Try to check out on friends regarding the calculation of your seed start date.
To start off the seed must be planted 1/8 inch deep in the container together with damp seed start mix. You have to firm the mix in a light manner in order to provide straight contact with the moist mixture; in this way it will help seeds to absorb moisture during germination process. The seeds can be placed together since the seedlings will be transferred to a larger container. As soon as the first true leaf appears you can then conclude that germination process has taken place.
You can actually cover your germination containers with plastic or plastic bag just to preserve the moisture. Do not allow your mix to go dry by not giving it air, dry seeds will not germinate.
A warm area will serve better during germination process, a direct sunlight exposure is not necessary. In 5 to 10 days a germinated tomato seeds are expected only if the container was maintained in warmth of 70 – 80F. High temperatures are destructive as well as low temperatures will cease the germination process. At the point where the first seedling appears, then it is a sign to expose them to sunlight for they will be craving for it.
Keep in mind that the first step is to plan your seed starting date. As the outdoor temperature becomes favorable, your transplants must be in its proper size. It is necessary to introduce plants to outdoor environment slowly. The plants maybe in shock once the process is not introduced slowly resulting to temporary stop of growth. It will be also difficult for the plant to adjust outdoor once they are placed indoor for so long. During there first outdoor exposure they should not experience the sun and the wind to the fullest.
To harden tomato plants a cold frame can be utilized. On moderate days they can be easily detached, but during the inclement days they should be intact. You can place temporary plastic sheets. To protect the plant from direct sun and wind fences and buildings can be used; this is good to allow the plant to adapt to the outdoor climate.
Growing final locations comes off after the transplants were hardened off and planted. There are tomato growers who suggest that early blossoms should be taken away before transplanting. If the transplants are healthy, then you can keep it. A good harvest is most likely expected when growing tomatoes from seed.