How to Grow Tomatoes

Overview

Tomatoes are one of the most rewarding crops to grow at home, producing sweet, flavourful fruit from midsummer through autumn. They thrive in greenhouses but many varieties also perform well outdoors in sheltered, sunny spots. With the right care, a single plant can yield several kilograms of fruit over the season.

Health Benefits

Rich in lycopene: A powerful antioxidant that may support heart health. Homegrown tomatoes ripened on the vine tend to have higher lycopene levels than those picked unripe for transport.

Excellent source of Vitamin C: A single medium tomato provides around 20% of your daily Vitamin C needs, supporting immune function and skin health.

Potassium for heart health: Tomatoes are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Soil Preparation

Tomatoes need rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Dig in well-rotted compost or manure several weeks before planting. Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8 for best results. If growing in containers, use a high-quality peat-free multipurpose compost mixed with perlite for drainage.

Sowing & Planting

Sow seeds indoors from late February to mid-March in small pots or modules at 18-21°C. Transplant seedlings into larger pots when they have two true leaves. Harden off gradually in May before planting outdoors after the last frost, typically late May to early June in temperate climates. Space plants 45-60cm apart.

Care & Maintenance

Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Feed weekly with a high-potash tomato fertiliser once the first truss of fruit has set. Pinch out side shoots on cordon (indeterminate) varieties to focus energy on fruit production. Support plants with sturdy canes or string.

Harvesting

Harvest tomatoes when they are fully coloured and slightly soft to the touch, typically from July to October. At the end of the season, pick remaining green fruit and ripen indoors on a sunny windowsill or in a paper bag with a banana.

Common Problems

Blight is the most serious threat, causing brown patches on leaves and fruit rot. Grow resistant varieties and improve airflow around plants.

Blossom end rot appears as a dark patch at the base of the fruit and is caused by irregular watering and calcium deficiency.

Whitefly and aphids can be managed with companion planting or biological controls such as Encarsia formosa.

Companion Planting

Tomatoes grow well alongside basil, carrots, and marigolds, which can help deter pests and improve flavour. Keep them away from fennel and brassicas, which can inhibit growth.