Setup, Compatibility & Care Instructions
Sowing:
Sow seeds indoors from February to April, or sow directly outdoors from April to May after the risk of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions:
- Position: Full sun is essential for the best growth and flavor development.
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is recommended.
- Support: Tomato plants require sturdy support. Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support the main stems as they grow.
Care:
- Watering: Water tomato plants frequently and consistently to keep the compost evenly moist. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can lead to blossom end rot and cracking.
- Feeding: Once the first truss of fruit has formed, feed tomatoes regularly with a high potash plant food. Follow the product's instructions for application rates and frequency.
- Pruning:
- Tie the main stems to their supports as they grow.
- Remove any 'sideshoots' that develop in the V-shape between the main stem and the leaf stems. This encourages the plant to focus its energy on fruit production.
- Once the plant has produced 6 or 7 trusses of fruit, pinch out the top of the main stem. This 'stopping' process redirects the plant's energy to ripening existing fruit.
Harvesting:
Tomatoes can be harvested as they ripen from July through to October.