Start from SeedMaybe you want to get a jump on the growing season. Or maybe you want varieties that you can't find at the gardening center. Those are good reasons to grow your tomatoes from seed. Doing so gives you more control, and usually a healthier crop.
PlantTomatoes have fun in the sun, but fade in the shade. The more sun, the better. When it's time to put them in the ground, mix in a big helping of high-quality garden soil, such as Miracle-Gro® Garden Soil for Flowers and Vegetables. Tomatoes need elbow room, so plant them about two feet apart. Since they'll grow fast, put in stakes or cages at this stage.
Water and FeedTomatoes are extra thirsty during the first few weeks in the soil. You'll want to water them every day. After they're established, be sure to feed and water your plants regularly. You can do both at the same time with a Miracle-Gro® Liquafeed® Feeder, or Miracle-Gro® Watering Can Singles.
Don't forget to water regularly to keep the soil from drying out. Tomatoes love water, and one of the biggest reasons for decline in tomato plants is lack of moisture. You'll be amazed at how your plants respond to plant food, so feed them regularly, too. If some branches grow near or on the ground, snip them off to prevent disease. Also, quickly remove any tomatoes attacked by bugs or worms. You don't want to encourage them.
