How to grow ‘Cherry tomatoes’ at home

May 19, 2024

Aakanksha Sharma

Grow fresh tomatoes at home

Cherry tomatoes are one of the easiest growing kitchen vegetables. With simple potting, natural seeds, and harvest ready in 50-70 days, they are the perfect option for beginners. Here we mention how to successfully grow ‘Cherry tomatoes’ in the kitchen garden.

​Pick the right seeds

Cherry tomato seeds are abundant in nature and people can just start growing with the seeds they get from the cherry tomatoes at home. But, if you wish to buy the seeds, select cherry tomato varieties suited for your space. Popular varieties are ‘Sweet 100’ and ‘’Tiny Tim’.

​Soil and nutrition

Cherry tomatoes grow well in a nutrient-rich soil and it should be well-draining, not clogged. For the soil, mix in some compost or well-rotted manure into the garden bed to improve soil fertility.

First growth

To start with, sow the seeds indoors. Plant the seeds in small pots or seed trays filled with seed-starting mix and then keep it in a warm, sunny spot. Make sure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged.

​When to transfer

Once the seedlings have at least two sets of leaves, start keeping the pots or trays outside every now and then. And once a few more leaves start coming out, transfer the plant with soil to the bigger pot.

Potting again

When transferring, make sure that the new pot or container is deep enough and can support growing roots. Then dig through the soil and make sure it is deep enough to bury the stem up to the first set of leaves. This encourages stronger root development.

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Supporting the growth

Cherry tomatoes, when given the right soil, grow fast and spread nicely. And as the tomatoes can be heavy for the thin stems, it is important to give support to keep the fruit off the ground. So, use stakes, cages, or trellises to avoid damaging roots later.

Watering needs

Cherry tomato plants are susceptible to root rot and so it is important to make sure that there is no overwatering. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and make sure that the roots absorb it slowly.

​Does it need fertiliser?

Add in some balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. And it does not have to be chemical. One can also use organic options like compost tea to help give it additional nutrition.

Keep pests away

To keep pests away from the plant, do this simple trick. In a spray bottle add some neem oil (5 to 6 drops) and then mix in warm water. Shake the bottle well, and then spray this over the leaves, stems, and near the root. This will keep aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms away.

Harvesting the tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are usually ready to harvest in 60-70 days after transplanting. As soon as they start getting red and are firm to touch, pick them gently and use them as you like.

Thanks For Reading!

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