Tomatoes are an easy and exciting vegetable to grow however there are so many different types from small cherry type tomatoes up to large beefsteak tomatoes. Some varieties can be grown outside however you would need to check that the variety you choose for this.

Tomatoes do grow better in our climate in the greenhouse, porch, polythene tunnel or conservatory can be used to grow nice ripe tomatoes. Plants require lots of light and a very good fertile soil or compost with nutrients added throughout the growth of the plant. Tomato plants can grow very tall and require good space around to allow each plant to mature fully.

If you are growing from seed then now is the time to sow. It is possible to purchase as seedlings however it is important to protect young seedlings from frosts and in looking back over the last few years it has not been uncommon to have a cold spell in May that could damage or even kill off young seedling if exposed to cold conditions.

If you are planning on growing a number of plants then seed trays are best but if you can use old egg cartons or last year’s polystyrene plant cartons for seeding. Plant seeds in good rich compost to a depth of 5mm and space seeds out to avoid competition in the early stages of germination. The trays will require to be kept moist and warm to aid good germination. Do not over water but do keep moist.

Once the seedlings have germinated then it is important the young plants receive light. If seedlings do emerge and eventually fail remove immediately in the event it has been a tomato disease that has affected them. Once the seedlings start to grow leaves beyond the two leaf stage this is an indicator to either plant in to their own containers or plant pot.

There is also the option of planting in to grow bags which is a very common approach if space is available in the greenhouse or porch. There is not a good depth of compost in grow bags so it is a good approach to double up the grow bags to allow the newly planted seedlings a good depth of compost to allow the roots to develop.

Tomato plants will require to be supported and if growing a number of plants in a greenhouse situation then perhaps consider a trellis support but make sure enough space is allowed between plants to allow the plants to develop and grow without being impeded. Tomato plants require a good balanced fertiliser but be careful not to supply too much nitrogen which will produce big leaf but not good tomatoes.

A balanced NPK allows good growth and as phosphates help plants to flower then a good supply of this nutrient will help the plant produce a good supply of tomatoes. To assist pollination in the glasshouse it is a good idea to gently shake the plants a little each day, this will also identify if any pests such as whitefly and red spider mite are attacking tomato plants therefore keep an eye out for attacks such as this during inspections.

Products are available to control attacks like these however some suggestions of spraying collected rainwater or distilled water with some soap added and spraying as a fine mist can deter this type of pest from tomato plants. There has also been some suggestions of placing marigold plants next to tomato plants deter insects due to the strong aroma from this other plant. Check out garden centres for the tomtato plant that grows tomatoes and potatoes together.