by Amelia Emery

Created on: January 30, 2011

Starting tomato plants from seed is a fun and rewarding experience for any gardener who wants to have the satisfaction of growing a tomato from start to finish.  It is also the only way to get to try types of tomatoes that are not readily available at local garden centers.  Most retail outlets will only provide gardeners with a few varieties that they are able to buy in from wholesalers who may only grow what will do well in shipping and will make a profit.  This is unfortunate as there are hundreds of types of tomatoes available that are both hybrids and heirlooms that everyone should have the chance to try.  

The easiest way to find sources of tomato seed is to search on line.  There you will find a multitude of catalogs that give descriptions and growing information of each type of tomato.  Do not be afraid to try something that may seem way out of the ordinary such as an heirloom beefsteak or a variety that is commonly grown in another country. 

Unless you live in a climate where spring begins very early in the season, seeds will need to be started indoors to give them a good head start.  Before getting started, there are a few essential items that will need to be purchased.  These include, potting soil or Jiffy pellets, small containers and larger containers for transplanting, and a fluorescent growing light.  All of these items can be located at most retail garden centers. 

Seeds should be started at least 6-8 weeks before the last frost date but can also be started earlier than this in climates with a late spring start date.  Sow 1-2 seeds per pot or Jiffy by gently pushing the seed into the surface of the soil.  Soil should be lightly moist and not soggy as this will promote mold growth.  Place planted pots in a warm location and check seeds daily to keep moist and to check for germination.  Seeds normally germinate in 7-14 days.  To speed up germination, pots can be placed inside of a plastic dome or each pot can be covered with plastic wrap. 

After seeds germinate, place the growing light over them and position the light as close to the seedlings as possible.  This will prevent the seedlings from getting leggy and weak.  To help the seedlings develop sturdy stems, provide a gentle breeze with a fan or brush the tops of the plants with your hand on a regular basis.  As the seedlings grow taller, raise the height of the light so that the young plants

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