Essential Information
- Once your seedlings have developed a strong root system and are a few inches tall, it’s time to transplant them outdoors.
- Stakes are a simple solution, but you may need to tie the plants to them as they grow.
- Store your harvested cherry tomatoes in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
Growing your own cherry tomatoes is a rewarding experience. You’ll enjoy the taste of fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes, and the satisfaction of nurturing your own little garden. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right seeds to harvesting your delicious bounty.
1. Choosing the Right Cherry Tomato Variety
The first step is selecting the right cherry tomato variety. There are countless options, each with its unique flavor, size, and growing habits. Consider these factors:
- Taste: Do you prefer sweet, tart, or a balance of both?
- Size: Some cherry tomatoes are tiny, while others are larger, resembling small grape tomatoes.
- Growing Habits: Some varieties are indeterminate, meaning they grow continuously, while others are determinate, producing a single flush of fruit.
Popular Cherry Tomato Varieties:
- Sweet Million: A prolific, sweet, and easy-to-grow variety.
- Sungold: Known for its bright orange color and sweet, fruity flavor.
- Black Cherry: Produces small, dark red tomatoes with a rich, complex flavor.
- Yellow Pear: A unique variety with yellow, pear-shaped fruits.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors
For a head start, start your cherry tomato seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Here’s how:
- Fill Seed Trays: Use seed starting mix and fill the trays with it, leaving about half an inch of space at the top.
- Planting Seeds: Sow one or two seeds per cell, pressing them lightly into the soil.
- Water Gently: Mist the soil with water, ensuring it’s moist but not soggy.
- Provide Light: Place the trays in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights.
- Thin Out Seedlings: Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin out the weaker seedlings, leaving the strongest one in each cell.
3. Transplanting Your Cherry Tomato Seedlings
Once your seedlings have developed a strong root system and are a few inches tall, it’s time to transplant them outdoors.
- Choose a Sunny Spot: Cherry tomatoes need at least six hours of sunlight daily.
- Prepare the Soil: Amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Dig Holes: Space the holes about 18-24 inches apart, depending on the variety.
- Transplant Carefully: Gently remove the seedlings from the trays, being careful not to disturb the roots.
- Water Well: Immediately water the transplanted seedlings to help them establish themselves.
4. Providing Support for Your Cherry Tomato Plants
Cherry tomato plants are vigorous growers and can become quite heavy with fruit. Providing support will help them grow upright and prevent them from collapsing.
- Cages: Tomato cages are the most common support system. Choose a cage that is tall enough for your chosen variety.
- Trellises: Trellises offer a more elegant option and can be made from various materials like wood or metal.
- Stakes: Stakes are a simple solution, but you may need to tie the plants to them as they grow.
5. Watering and Fertilizing Your Cherry Tomato Plants
Regular watering and fertilization are crucial for healthy cherry tomato plants and abundant fruit production.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer every few weeks, following the instructions on the package.
6. Protecting Your Cherry Tomato Plants from Pests and Diseases
Cherry tomato plants can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Keep a watchful eye and take action quickly if you notice any problems.
- Pests: Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Diseases: Common diseases include blight, wilt, and mosaic virus. Rotate crops, remove infected plants, and practice good sanitation.
7. Harvesting Your Cherry Tomato Bounty
Once your cherry tomatoes turn red, they’re ready to harvest. Pick them regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruits.
- Harvesting: Pick the tomatoes when they are fully ripe and firm.
- Storing: Store your harvested cherry tomatoes in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
A Celebration of Flavor: The Joy of Homegrown Cherry Tomatoes
Growing your own cherry tomatoes is a rewarding experience. You’ll be amazed by the taste of fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes, and the satisfaction of nurturing your own little garden. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a continuous supply of delicious, homegrown cherry tomatoes throughout the summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I grow cherry tomatoes in containers?
Yes, you can grow cherry tomatoes in containers. Choose a container that is at least 10 gallons in size and has drainage holes.
2. How often should I water my cherry tomato plants?
Water your cherry tomato plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
3. What are some signs that my cherry tomato plants are not getting enough nutrients?
Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and poor fruit production.
4. How do I prevent blossom end rot in my cherry tomatoes?
Blossom end rot is caused by a lack of calcium. To prevent it, water your plants deeply and consistently, and ensure the soil has good drainage.
5. Can I save seeds from my cherry tomatoes to plant next year?
Yes, you can save seeds from your cherry tomatoes. However, if you want to ensure that your tomatoes are true-to-type, it’s best to purchase new seeds each year.
