If you’re going to be growing tomatoes in containers this spring and summer, you’ll definitely want to avoid these 5 common mistakes to ensure your tomatoes grow to be healthy, beautiful, and delicious. Read on, and learn everything you need to know!
1. Growing Tomatoes In Pots That Are Too Small
First, make sure that you choose containers that are large enough for your tomatoes. They need plenty of room to spread out their roots and grow, unlike herbs and some other plants.
Larger pots also can hold more soil and water, which ensures proper growth for your tomatoes. When in doubt, always choose a bigger pot or planter!
2. Over-Watering (Or Under-Watering) Your Tomatoes
You don’t want to give your tomatoes too much (or too little) water. If you give the plant too much water, the plan will begin to drown and die. Too little water, and the blossoms may rot because they aren’t getting enough nutrients.
Check your tomatoes daily. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water it. When you finish, the soil should be damp, not wet, and you should use a pot with holes so that the plant can drain away excess water, if necessary.
3. Too Little Sunlight
Tomatoes thrive with at least 8 or more hours of sunlight. When growing tomatoes, make sure you put them in an area that receives plentiful sunlight. Too little sun, and their growth will be stunted and they may wilt.
4. Planting Other Herbs Or Multiple Tomatoes In The Same Container
Don’t crowd your tomatoes by trying to plant multiple tomatoes in the same container. Remember what we said about tomatoes needing a lot of space in their pots! Some more experienced gardeners may plant herbs like basil alongside tomatoes, but we don’t recommend this for beginners.
5. Planting Seedlings & Moving Them Outside Too Early
Tomatoes are NOT frost-tolerant. A single frost can severely damage or kill your tomatoes. If you are growing seedlings or tomatoes indoors in pots, do not move them outside until there is no risk of a frost, even on the chilliest nights. If your plants frost, they’ll be severely damaged.
Follow These Tips For A Great Harvest When Planting Tomatoes In Containers! Tomatoes are easy to grow and are ideal for beginner gardeners. Just make sure you avoid these common mistakes when growing tomatoes in containers, and come to The Soil King to get all of the tools, seeds, supplies, and pots you need for a successful growing season!