This is called ‘stopping’ and encourages the plant to put its energy into developing fruit.
When the plant has six or seven good trusses of fruit, pinch out the growing tip. These appear between each leaf and the main stem. As the plant grows remove all laterals (side branch) growths as soon as they appear. Pruning lets in maximum light and allows the plant to concentrate its energy on the main leaf structure and the fruit. Tall varieties need pruning to aid air circulation which prevents disease. Overhead wires with strings to climb up can also be used. It is a good idea to position stakes for all varieties at planting time to avoid damaging the roots later on. If planting seedlings from a punnet, first remove from the punnet then gently separate the seedlings. Seedlings can be planted with the soil about 2cm further up the stem than it was in the pot. First water the plant in its container and allow to drain, then plant without disturbing the root ball. Plant your tomato seedlings in well prepared soil at least 40cm apart. Red Robin, Totem or Russian Red in pots or try Tumbling Tom or Pear Drops in big hanging baskets. Smaller growing varieties are easiest to manage in pots and will generally give the best results e.g. Take extra care with watering throughout the season to prevent the mix drying out and add liquid feed fortnightly. We recommend Tui Tomato Mix as it is a perfectly formulated specialist tomato potting mix.
Tomatoes are happy in containers or planter bags and can be easily cared for on decks and patios, they just requiring staking and training as you would plants grown in the garden. Prepare the soil by using Tui Tomato Mix on its own or dig through existing garden soil deeply. Tomatoes thrive in free draining soil which is rich in organic matter. Position close to a wall, fence or trellis, or use a strong stake when planting. Tomatoes need plenty of sunshine, and some of the taller varieties need protection from strong winds.
Other great companions for tomatoes are marigold, nasturtium and chives. Palmers’ handy tip: Growing tomatoes and basil together increases the vigor and flavour of both crops. Labour weekend is the traditional time for planting tomatoes but they can be planted outdoors as soon as conditions allow, usually after the risk of frost has gone. With protection, plants can be grown from August onwards. Tomatoes generally need three months of warm, frost free weather to produce well. The weather, rather than the calendar date, is the determining factor. Tomatoes come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and tastes, including heritage varieties that are making a comeback along with tried and true garden favourites – there really is a tomato for everyone! How to grow tomatoes Tomatoes are a favourite summer edible crop and home grown truly tastes best! Tomatoes can be grown from seed or are readily available from early spring in seedling punnets, various grade single pots or grafted varieties.
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