Growing Guides How to grow tomatoes

Date Published:

15/10/2007

Caring

The potted plants should be placed in a sunny, sheltered position, preferably in a greenhouse or conservatory.

Hardier types (consult the seed packet) can be put outside in a warm, sunny and sheltered position once all danger of frost is passed - usually by around early June.

Water containers at least daily. Never let them dry out but always check them first to see if the compost is moist, as they should not be in waterlogged conditions for too long.

After two or three weeks, the plants will start flowering and you should begin to feed them. Use a plant food recommended specifically for tomatoes, as it will be rich in potassium, which they love.

Harvesting

For the best flavour, you should aim to leave the fruits on the plants for as long as possible, waiting until the colour has fully developed.

Once it has, don't hold back - picking the tomatoes regularly will encourage the plant to produce more.

Bend back the fruit at the notch on the stem and either cut or gently twist it off, supporting the vine with your other hand.

Try to remove them with the green remains of the flower still attached as this will prolong their shelf life.

They are truly delicious eaten warm, straight from the plant, but they can be stored for up to a week in the fridge.