subject: Growing Your Tomatoes in a Container [print this page] Growing Your Tomatoes in a Container Growing Your Tomatoes in a Container
Growing container tomatoes can be done by anyone, even if they have limited space in which to do so. Tomatoes grow just as well indoors in a container as outdoors in a traditional garden. Growing tomatoes in a container can provide a great option for those who want to grow tomatoes but don't think they have the space to do so.
Containers are a versatile way of growing tomatoes. Containers can be used either indoors or outdoors and are a good option even if the tomatoes could be grown in the ground in an ordinary garden. The container provides a safe environment for the plants, keeping away soil-borne fungal diseases.
Tomato plants do tend to grow large, so a decent-sized pot or container will be required for this method. The choice of container is important. For example, in very hot climates, a black-colored container can become so hot it burns the roots of the plant, and a metal container is never recommended, as it too can become too hot for the plant.
The container will need to be prepared before the tomatoes are planted. Drill small holes in the bottom of the pot to allow water to drain out. Find a location slightly off the ground to set the pot (if it is outside). This will keep away diseases that could enter the container from the holes in the bottom.
Once the container is prepared, it's time to plant the tomatoes. Fill it almost to the top with soil. The last bit of space in the top of the container is for fertilizer. Add and mix in the fertilizer before planting the tomatoes.
The type of tomato plant used is up to the individual gardener, but for growing in a container, a disease-resistant type may be the best choice. Big Beef and Better Boy tomatoes are both good choices for container growing. Depending on the size of the container, it is possible to grow almost any type of tomato plant. A good-sized container can support two tomato plants at a time.
The tomatoes will need support as they grow. The cage should be about 50 inches (1.2 m) tall, and possibly taller than that. Another option is using a stake, trellis or fence. Tomatoes can grow to be large and heavy, so they may outgrow the support. If necessary, you can build your own cage from hardware cloth or wire mesh.
When to plant the tomatoes is up to you, and depends in part on the specific type of plant and the climate that is best for it to grow in. But if the tomatoes are planted too early in the season, while the weather is still cool, it may be important to protect the plant with a layer of plastic. If you do need to cover the plant, ensure that holes are cut in the plastic to allow for ventilation.
Proper watering is vital to seeing the tomatoes grow successfully. When watering, stop when the water begins to drain out of the holes in the bottom of the container. Watering is particularly important when the plant starts bearing fruit. At this point, the tomatoes need to be watered every day, especially when it's hot. Be sure to prune as the plant gets larger.
