Description
Botanical Name: Solanum lycopersicum
Family: Solanaceae
Spacing: 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) apart in rows spaced 36-48 inches (90-120 cm) apart
Depth: 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6-1.3 cm) deep
Sun & Soil Requirements: Full sun and well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date
Outdoors: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperature has reached at least 60°F (16°C)
Germination Time: 7-14 days
Companion Planting: Basil, borage, carrots, chives, garlic, marigolds, nasturtiums
Watering Requirements: Consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering
Fertilizer Requirements: Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting and side-dress with additional fertilizer during the growing season
Pests: Aphids, tomato hornworms, whiteflies
Timing: 70-75 days to maturity
Growing: Prune suckers to promote fruit production, and provide support with cages or stakes
Harvest Tips: Harvest when fruit is firm and fully colored, but still slightly soft
Season Tolerance: Warm season
