Because of only one reason, who needs a garden? Homegrown tomatoes are deliciously plump and fresh. And easiest of all- it is the best to grow in pots. Space saving, could fit balconies, terraces, or even sunny windowsills. The following is a complete Step-by-Step Guide to Grow Tomatoes in Pots at Home.
Step 1: Pick Out the Perfect Pot
Tomato plants need space for roots and should be at least 12-18 inches deep and wide. Drainage holes are necessary so that the medium does not become waterlogged at any time. Soil drying is least in the bigger pots.
Step 2: Right Tomato Variety
Determinate types of short and compact varieties of tomatoes are the ones most suitable for growing in containers. Such short types are Cherry Tomatoes, Patio Princess, or Roma, as they do not get very tall, making it easy for them to be managed by using pots.
Step 3: Potting Mix-Rich Nutrients
This potting mix is almost very well-draining and with high organic matter content. Garden soil should be avoided; it is too heavy and compact instead. One can combine it with some compost or coco peat to retain moisture and nutrients.
Step 4: Water and Sunlight
Tomatoes love the sun! Plant the pot in a spot that gets exposed for 6-8 hours to direct sunlight a day. Water carefully, keeping a constant moisture level, but not soggy soil. No watering of leaves as that would bring forth diseases of infection by fungus.
Step 5: Support and Feed the plant
The tomato plant should, in addition, be staked or caged for support. Every ten to fifteen days, you could also fertilize the plant with a liquid balanced fertilizer or compost tea to induce fruiting.
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Step 6: Harvest
Now, after sixty to eighty days, ripe red tomatoes will be available for plucking. Pick them all at once but do so with care and regularly for more fruit-bearing.
Keep watching for pests and give regular maintenance by pruning lower leaves to keep the plant healthy. Tomatoes in pots will give rewards and are the best for beginner gardeners!