Tomatoes are some of the most sought-after vegetables in the world. To get the most out of tomatoes, you need to be careful about how you plant them. As a beginner, you need a detailed step by step guide on how to grow tomatoes, such as the provided by California Gardening.
This article will equip you with the tips you need – the basics.
6 Tips For Growing Tomatoes
1.     Sunlight
Tomatoes love sunlight, and this is why you should grow them under the sunniest spots in your garden or backyard. Plant them in a way they can access sunlight for at least six hours a day.
2.     Watering
Ensure to deeply water your plants to keep them hydrated for them to thrive. You may also choose to mulch. Mulching prevents the water from evaporation during summer.
3.     NPK fertilizer ratio
Tomatoes are heavy feeders, and they require fertilizer to enhance their growth. Fertilizers should have lower nitrogen to enhance development. It should also have higher phosphorous rates to promote ripening and fruit yields. Potassium, on the other hand, impacts the fruits of high quality. However, you can use compost where soils are fertile.
4.     Pruning
Suckers on tomatoes should be pruned to promote air circulation as it keeps the plant from attracting diseases. This further helps the plant to focus its energy on the growing fruit.
5.     Soil quality
The soil should be neutral, and you should avoid soils with high acidity rates. Tomatoes tend to thrive in fertile soils that are well-draining, and slightly acidic. You can add dolomite lime if your soil is too acidic or add compost organic matter when it’s too alkaline. Note the soil’s ph. should range from 6.5 to 6.8.
6.     Include other plants
It would be best if you aimed at growing tomatoes together with other vegetables as they help repel pests. Examples of pest repellent veggies include sunflowers, marigolds, and carrots.
When you are also growing avocados in the same area, ensure there is enough space as avocado trees usually grow tall, and they may prevent sunlight from reaching your tomatoes.
Summary
Tomatoes are the ideal plants for gardening enthusiasts all over the world. They are productive and nutritious, and you don’t need a lot of space.
