Growing Tommy Toe Tomatoes

Preparation

Tomatoes thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. For the best results:

  • Use well-drained soil enriched with compost or aged manure.
  • Rotate crops yearly to prevent pest and disease buildup. Avoid planting tomatoes in the same spot two years in a row.
  • For container growing, use a pot with at least 40-litre capacity filled with high-quality potting mix.

How to Sow Tomato Seeds

Option 1: Direct Sowing in the Garden

  • Sow seeds 5mm deep and 50cm apart, with rows spaced 60-70cm apart.
  • Keep soil moist but not soggy.
  • Seeds germinate in 5-10 days at a soil temperature of 21-27°C.
  • Protect young seedlings from pests and harsh weather.

Option 2: Raising Seedlings Indoors

  • Sow seeds in seed trays or pots filled with seed-raising mix.
  • Transplant seedlings when they are 5-10cm tall with their first true leaves.

Hudstone Pro Tip: In cooler climates, sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost. Keep in a warm, sunny spot to encourage healthy growth.

Caring for Tommy Toe Tomatoes

  • Watering: Water deeply when the soil feels dry 5cm below the surface. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
  • Fertilising: Well-prepared soil often doesn’t require extra fertiliser. For a boost:
  • Staking: As an indeterminate variety, Tommy Toe needs support. Use stakes, a trellis, or a tripod, and gently tie stems as they grow.
  • Pruning: Prune to two main stems for better airflow, easier management, and larger fruit.

Harvesting Tommy Toe Tomatoes

  • Time to Harvest: Ready in approximately 72 days.
  • How to Harvest: Pick fruit when it begins to change colour. Twist gently or snip with secateurs to avoid damaging the plant.
  • Storage:

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Aphids & Whiteflies: Spray with water or use soap spray to remove these sap-sucking pests.
  • Blossom End Rot: Prevent calcium deficiency by watering consistently and mulching to regulate soil moisture.
  • Split Fruit: Caused by overwatering or heavy rainfall. Harvest ripe fruit promptly and mulch to manage moisture levels.
  • Sunscald: Protect fruit from intense sun by leaving foliage intact or shading plants during heatwaves.
  • Powdery Mildew: Ensure good airflow, water at soil level, and remove affected leaves.

Why Hudstone Seeds?

  • High Quality: Reliable germination and exceptional heirloom flavour.
  • Eco-Friendly: Perfect for gardens or growing in our reusable cotton calico bags.
  • Versatile: Great for fresh eating, cooking, or preserving.

Ready to grow your own tomatoes?

Order your Tommy Toe Tomato Seeds today and enjoy sweet, flavour-packed tomatoes straight from your garden!

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