How-To
Planting Tomatoes in a Container
How to Plant Tomatoes in a Container
No yard, no problem! Tomatoes will thrive and provide loads of tomatoes when grown in a large pot. Tomatoes like the warm and should be planted spring into summer; there are even varieties that can be planted in early fall.
Nearly all plants should be planted at the depth of their nursery container, However, tomatoes are unique and are one of the few plants that can generate roots from their stem. Plant your tomatoes deep so they can have a robust root system for a healthy, strong plant that will produce more fruit. Remove the bottom set of leaves and plant your tomato deep enough so the soil comes just above where the leaves were removed.
Planting Tomatoes in a Container
- Tomatoes have a large root system so plant in a pot that is at least 18 inches in diameter. Place the pot outside in an that receives full sun; at least 6 to 8 hours.
- Fill the pot at least 2/3 full of Dr. Earth Pot of Gold Potting Soil. This soil will give tomatoes a great foundation so roots can easily establish and will allow for proper drainage.
- Work 2-3 handfuls of organic Dr. Earth Root Zone and 1 handful of Gypsum or Bone Meal as you fill the pot with soil. This will provide the tomato with key nutrients to help the roots establish in their new home preventing transplant shock. The slow release of Calcium in the Gypsum or Bone Meal helps tomatoes produce large, sweet fruit and prevents blossom drop.
- Remove the tomato from the nursery pot, and place in the hole. Remember, tomatoes can be planted deep. Remove the first cluster of foliage and plant the tomato so the soil line is just above the foliage you removed. Once the tomato is in the hole, fill in with more potting soil gently tapping the soil to remove air pockets.
- Water thoroughly.
- Place a tomato cage over the tomato plant. While the cage may look large now; the tomato will quickly grow into it. Once your tomatoes start growing (they grow quickly!), it becomes very difficult to add the cage without breaking off leaves and stems, so always purchase your cage(s) when you get your tomato starts.
Caring for Tomato Plants
Water is Key
Keep your tomatoes consistently watered. In the heat of summer, when the root masses are large and established, they may need water daily. Be sure to water in the morning between 5am-9am. Water at the base of the plant. Do not top water the leaves.
Feed Your Tomatoes
Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so frequent fertilization will ensure a strong plant that produces tons of sweet fruit. Feed tomato plants with an organic fertilizer like Dr. Earth Home Grown Tomato, Vegetable & Herb fertilizer. This is a people and pet-safe, granular organic fertilizer that should be applied every 3-4 weeks for healthy, vigorous tomato plants. After 6 weeks, add another handful of Gypsum or Bone meal. When feeding, scatter the fertilizer over the top of the soil and work it in with your fingers, then give it a good deep watering.
Harvest Time
Allow tomatoes to fully color and ripen on the vine. To pick, use a small scissors or hand pruners to cut them and cut at the stem.
