Description
Botanical Name: Solanum lycopersicum
Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
Spacing: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart
Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch (6 mm) deep
Sun & Soil Requirements: Full sun; well-draining soil rich in organic matter
Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last expected frost date
Outdoors: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last expected frost date
Germination Time: 6-14 days at 70-80°F (21-27°C)
Companion Planting: Basil, chives, onions, parsley, marigolds
Watering Requirements: Regular watering to keep soil evenly moist
Fertilizer Requirements: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer before planting and again every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season
Pests: Tomato hornworms, aphids, whiteflies, cutworms
Timing: 80-85 days to maturity
Growing: Indeterminate growth habit; stake or provide support for the vines; prune to encourage fruit production
Harvest Tips: Pick when fruit is firm and fully colored
Season Tolerance: Warm season crop; requires consistently warm temperatures to grow and produce fruit
