How To Grow Tomatoes Indoors

How To Grow Tomatoes Indoors

Introduction…There is no comparing the taste of fresh, home-grown tomatoes to the store-bought chemical treated tomatoes. Try growing your very own tomatoes indoors and enjoy them throughout the winter!

Get a free material list and instructions at www.smartandeasygardening.com

Step 1: Seed Selection Be sure to purchase the “indeterminate” variety instead of the “determinate” variety. Also, the cherry or pear tomatoes will do better indoors than larger “slicing” varieties.(Try the Jelly Bean, Yellow Pear, Toy Boy or Tiny Tim varieties)

Step 2: Give Us Light!Tomatoes need 6 to 8 hours of light a day, so place your plants in a south facing window or place a light next to your plants. Also, try to keep your tomato plants warm.

Step 3: Plant Your SeedsSoak your tomato seeds in liquid seaweed overnight to improve germination. Then plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and water. Keep soil moist, but not soggy. Germination should occur in 5 to l0 days.

Step 4: Transplant Your PlantsWhen your plants reach 3 inches in height, transplant them to larger pots. A 6 inch pot will hold a single tomato plant and a 12 inch pot will work for 2 plants.

Step 5: Stake ‘em As your plants grow, they will need some extra support to hold them upright. Push a plant stake or ¼ inch wood dowel all the way to bottom of the pot. Tie the plant to the stake loosely with ribbon or string.

Step 6: Shake ‘em When your plant begins to produce flowers, gently shake (or tap) the main stem to emulate the plant moving in the wind outside. This encourages pollination of the plant and should be done sporadically. Also, turn the pot frequently to make sure the sunlight reaches all sides of your plant.

Step 7: FertilizeGive your tomato plants a good feeding every week. We recommend using liquid seaweed to feed your plants without putting harmful chemicals in them. Remember, you and your family will be eating these tomatoes!

Step 8: RepeatWhen your tomato plant becomes unproductive, pull it out of its potting soil and start the process all over again. With a few indoor tomato plants started a month apart, your family will enjoy fresh tomatoes every day!

Don’t Forget!Get your free material list

and printable instructions at

www.smartandeasygardening.com