Tomato Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Tomato Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Tomatoes

Planting Schedule:
To grow Tomatoes, plant seeds indoors in early spring with bottom heat for optimal germination. Once sprouted, move them to a cooler spot under bright lights and nurture them for 6-8 weeks at around 10°C (50°F). Transplant outdoors when nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 7°C (45°F) for early types or 10°C (50°F) for others. Soil temperature should range between 25-35°C (68-95°F) for best germination results, usually within 7-14 days.


Seed Starting:
Plant seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½ inch) deep in well-lit areas to foster strong, leg-free growth. Seedlings may require repotting to support their root development. Arrange determinate varieties 45-60cm (18-24 inches) apart and indeterminate types 50-75cm (20-30 inches) apart, with rows spaced 1m (3 feet) apart.


Growing:
For healthy tomato plants, aim for soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Add compost, manure, and organic fertilizer. Plant time depends on soil type; earlier is for lighter soil. Use glacial rock dust for calcium. Water regularly, provide full sun exposure, and support the plants.

Bury the plant up to the first leaves when transplanting to improve growth. Reduce watering in late July to aid fruit ripening. Prune indeterminate varieties to manage foliage and encourage a larger fruit set. Determinate types require minimal pruning and bear fruit simultaneously.


Harvesting:
Harvest tomatoes at your preferred ripeness. Indoors, green tomatoes can ripen in cool conditions if blemish-free. Note that very dark green tomatoes may not fully ripen.

Tomato Pests & Diseases

Blossom End Rot:
Blossom End Rot is caused by calcium deficiency, leading to a brown, dry, and recessed area at the fruit's blossom end. This can cause further infection and even internal blackening. Fluctuations in watering disrupt calcium uptake, leading to an imbalance in the potassium-to-calcium ratio. Add bonemeal, dolomite lime, and organic fertilizer to the soil to prevent this and maintain consistent watering.


Late Blight:
Late Blight is a fungal disease that affects plants, especially tomatoes. It begins as greenish-black spots on the leaves, which then spread to the stems and fruit. Brown cankers and bluish-grey mould may also develop. Prevention is critical as there is no cure. Keep plants dry and ventilated, and use cloches. Applying Bordo Copper Spray with OMRI-listed Superflow Natural Surfactant in late summer can prevent fungus spores from germinating.