How to Container Garden

Want to grow tomatoes but have limited space? Try container gardening! It’s one of the easiest ways to grow fruits and veggies.

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes will thrive off full sun and lots of heat for at least 6-8 hours a day. Choose a south facing location that will be in direct view of the sun all day. It’s important to grow your tomatoes outside because they are heat and sun loving plants.

Water Requirements

Tomatoes like consistent moisture but do not like to be in standing water. During these 90+ degree summer days, they may need to be watered every day, especially in a container. When the first inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water! Soak the pot thoroughly and let the water drain out the bottom.

Fertilizing Requirements

Tomatoes are considered “heavy feeders” meaning they need consistent and heavy fertilization to fruit. Using a slow-release tomato formulated fertilizer during the initial planting is crucial as well as feeding your plants every 1-2 weeks with a liquid concentrate tomato fertilizer while it’s actively growing.

Container Requirements

Choosing the right container for your pepper variety is a crucial first step in the planting process. Choose a container that holds at least 5 gallons of soil. Some smaller varieties of tomatoes can manage 2-3 gallon containers while larger tomato varieties need a container that holds 10-15 gallons of soil. Keep in mind that a terracotta container will wick away moisture too quickly, choose sealed ceramic, plastic, or a grow bag.

Potting Mix Requirements

Choose a high quality (preferably organic) potting mix that is well-draining.

Support Requirements

Tomatoes will get quite tall, so make sure you stake your plant at the time of planting to ensure adequate support. Use a garden stake with ties or a tomato cage.

Planting Requirements

First step is to remove the peat pot your tomato plant has been growing in. This ensures the root system has room to breath and grow to it’s fullest extent.

If your tomato plant is already starting to mature or get top heavy, consider snipping off the lower leaves and planting deep. You can plant your tomato plant up to it’s first fruiting branch. The stem that’s placed in soil will grow roots and in turn, your plant will grow to be sturdier.