For those of you growing tomatoes in the garden, now is the time to start them indoors. Here’s what I do:
-I started mine off this year in those ready made jiffy kits you can find at hardware stores with lid. I hydrated the soil plugs, seeded them and then placed them on a heat mat. I put the covers on with no lights. Tomato seeds save exceptionally well and for multiple years, I only buy seed if I want to try a different variety. -After they germinate, I take the lid off and put them under lights. My lights are just hanging florescent lights suspended from the shelf above. - Once they have their first set of true leaves, I move them to a bigger container. These containers were saved from pansies that were planted in the spring. Make sure to use soil specifically for potting (potting mixes) as it will be the right consistency and have the right amount of nutrients. -Set them in a solid tray and bottom water only to avoid dampening off. I like to fill with about a 1/4 inch of water and then only refill once the bottom tray is dry. I keep a container of water nearby that is room temp so I don’t shock the roots. -Keep the lights a couple of inches above the leaves, as they get taller I will have to move the lights up. Also, I have a little fan I picked up at Walgreens on low blowing just above them to keep the air circulating. -I like to say encouraging things to them as I walk by during the day. Is that weird? Don't answer. - Once the days get warmer, I’ll set the trays outside a little at a time in a shady and protected area so they can get used to the outside. -When we are safely past the last frost date, usually sometime mid April, I’ll plant them with plenty of mixed in compost in the garden. They like to be planted deep. I usually plant them past the first set of leaves as they will happily root out. They are vines after all!
Abby the Labby supervising seedling growth:
I’m trying out some new varieties this year including Sun Peach and Honey Comb Hybrid, along with my tried and true Big Beef, BHN 589, and Early Girl.
Happy tomato starting!!!
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