by Kelly Szymanski

Created on: May 10, 2010

Tomatoes are one of the most commonly grown plants in home vegetable gardens, and with good reason. The exquisite flavor of a fresh, sun-warmed, vine ripened tomato is treasured by tomato lovers everywhere. So, with that said, is there a secret to growing these tasty, nutritious treats? Secrets, no. But there are definitely thing you need to know to grow tomatoes that will make yours the envy of the neighborhood.

Here are some commonly asked questions about growing tomatoes.

Q. How much sun do my tomatoes need?

A.  Tomato plants need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. However, as with most things there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. If you live in an area that has very hot, dry summers, your tomatoes will benefit from some protection from the midday sun.

Q.  What kind of soil is best for growing juicy, great tasting tomatoes?

A.  Tomatoes need rich, well drained soil. They love compost, so be sure to dig plenty of it into your soil before you plant. Tomatoes like soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.8, so it's a good idea to dig your compost in a couple of weeks before planting time and having your soil pH tested about a week or so later. Your local garden center can help you with testing and amending the soil as needed.

Q.  When should I plant my tomatoes?

A.  Tomatoes are very, very tender. They cannot tolerate any frost, or even soil that has not sufficiently warmed. I know you are anxious, but wait until all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is at least 60 degrees F. Make sure that the nighttime temperatures do not fall below 50 degrees F.

Q.  How many tomato plants will I need?

A. Generally speaking, 2 plants per person is good.

Q.  Should I provide support for my tomato plants?

A.  Tomato plants will definitely benefit from some support. Put stakes or trellises in the ground at planting time so you are sure you won't damage your plants roots. As your plants grow, use soft twine to tie them to their support. If you prefer to use a cage, you can install it anytime before the plant gets too big.  Providing support will keep the tender fruit from laying on the ground (which can lead to rot and insect problems) and will also help keep the air circulating around your plants, which will help keep them healthier.

Q.  Do tomato plants need a lot of water? How about fertilizer?

A.  Tomato plants need soil that is well drained and evenly moist. For best results water from the ground using a soaker hose. Irregular watering can cause the skins of the delicate fruits to split. Fertilize weekly with compost tea applied at the roots of each plant.

Q.  How will I know when to harvest my tomatoes?

A.  Tomatoes should be harvested when they are fully ripened. Once ripening begins, harvest regularly to avoid having fruit that rots on the vine. Regular harvesting allows the plant to send addition nutrients to other fruits on the vine, increasing your harvest. Depending on the variety you choose, tomatoes are ready for harvest 55 to 90 days after transplanting into your garden.

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