What To Know
- Growing cherry tomato plants can be a rewarding experience, providing you with an abundance of sweet and juicy fruits throughout the summer.
- Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to plant cherry tomato plants successfully.
- Aim to water the plants about once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.
Growing cherry tomato plants can be a rewarding experience, providing you with an abundance of sweet and juicy fruits throughout the summer. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to plant cherry tomato plants successfully.
Choosing the Right Cherry Tomato Variety
The first step is to choose the right cherry tomato variety for your growing conditions. There are many different varieties available, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular choices include:
- Sungold: Known for its sweet and tangy flavor, golden-orange fruits
- Sweet 100: A prolific producer of small, sweet tomatoes
- Tumbling Tom: A compact variety ideal for containers or hanging baskets
Preparing the Soil
Cherry tomato plants thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Amend your soil with organic matter such as compost or manure to improve its structure and nutrient content. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.8.
Starting Cherry Tomato Seeds
You can start cherry tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep in a seed starting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide plenty of sunlight or artificial light.
Transplanting Cherry Tomato Seedlings
When the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, it’s time to transplant them into individual containers or the garden. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor temperatures for a week before transplanting.
Planting Cherry Tomato Plants in the Garden
- Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
- Place the seedling in the hole and gently firm the soil around it.
- Space the plants 24-36 inches apart.
Watering and Fertilizing Cherry Tomato Plants
- Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Supporting Cherry Tomato Plants
- Cherry tomato plants need support to prevent them from falling over. Use stakes, cages, or trellises to provide support.
Pruning Cherry Tomato Plants
- Prune the lower leaves of the plants to improve airflow and prevent disease.
- Remove any suckers (new shoots that grow between the main stem and a branch) to encourage fruit production.
Harvesting Cherry Tomatoes
- Cherry tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe and have a deep red color.
- Gently twist the tomatoes off the vine.
- Store the tomatoes in a cool, dry place.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with Cherry Tomato Plants
- Blossom end rot: Caused by calcium deficiency. Add calcium to the soil or apply a foliar spray.
- Tomato blight: A fungal disease that can cause the leaves and fruits to wilt and die. Remove infected plants and apply a fungicide.
- Aphids: Small, green insects that can suck the sap from the plants. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water cherry tomato plants?
Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Aim to water the plants about once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.
What is the best way to support cherry tomato plants?
Use stakes, cages, or trellises to provide support for cherry tomato plants. This will prevent them from falling over and help to increase fruit production.
How do I prevent blossom end rot on cherry tomato plants?
Blossom end rot is caused by calcium deficiency. To prevent it, add calcium to the soil or apply a foliar spray. You can also water the plants regularly and avoid over-fertilizing them.
