There are many ways in which to grow tomatoes, from indoor growth to greenhouses. Growing tomatoes takes time, but is one of the easiest fruits to grow and has little upkeep to continue growth. Home grown tomatoes ensure no pesticides are used and are all eco-friendly. For the first time grower, this article will start out easy.
You will need:
- 1 small tomato plant from a nursery
- Gardening area outside with plenty of full sunlight
- 1 gallon water
- 2 cups of compost
- Spade
- Fertilizer sticks
- Bowl
- Garden Gloves (optional)
Step 1: Buy the tomato plant you wish to grow. The plant can be as small as only 3 inches in height, and there is no reason to pay more for a larger plant. Easy to grow variations include Creole, Early Girl and Brandywine tomatoes.
Step 2: Find a sunny spot in your gardening area to plant the tomato plant. This area should be one that sees full sun for about 7 hours or more a day. Tomatoes are known for needing ample sunshine to grow properly.
Step 3: Use the spade to dig up an area that is the same depth as the pot your tomato plant is currently in. This will ensure that the roots of your plant are completely covered by soil. The average depth of the hole you will require is about 5 inches deep and 3 inches wide. Place the compost into the bowl, and add the soil you just dug up into the bowl. With your hands, mix the compost in well with the soil. Use garden gloves if you are uncomfortable mixing soil with your hands.
Step 4: Transplant your tomato plant from the original container into the hole you just dug in the garden area. Begin adding the compost and soil mixture around the roots snugly, and then adding all around the sides of the tomato plant. This helps keep the plant growing upright, and feeds the plant at the same time. Wait ten minutes and then water the plant with one gallon of warm water. This helps to avoid shock to the plant from the transplant.
Step 5: Water the plant daily if there is no rain. The plant should only use about a half gallon of water daily after transplanting. If extended periods of rain are seen, test the soil for dryness before watering. If the soil crumbles in between your fingers, it is dry enough to water. If the soil sticks to your fingers, there is no need to water further.
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