Tomato Starting Discussion

Bill R · 2008-03-24T15:26:54+00:00

A lot of us that read and post in this newsgroup grow tomatoes and a lot of us start our own seeds. I thought that I would start a discussion on how you start and grow your own tomatoes.I grow a lot of varieties that are not available as plants from the local places that carry tomato plants. I use a couple of different methods to start them. I like the "bio-dome houses" method that vendors like Park Seeds sell. I also use the "peat pellets" (like the Jiffy-7) for the larger plants. When I start seeds inside (in March) I place the planter on "seeding heat pads". They really help in getting the seeds started faster and result in a much higher germination rate than non heated methods. They also help the plants grow much faster.After the seed are up about a week they are watered with a 20-20-20 plant food solution mixed at 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water. I generally don't put the tomato plants out in the garden until (at least) the middle of May. Before that I put them out on the porch during the day (in the shade) to get them accustomed to the weather.How do you start your tomatoes?

Mar 24, 2008 20 Replies

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bungadora 18 years ago

When they're small I'll probably keep them raised, but they'll start shooting up soon and it would be a good idea for me to do that. Thanks.

I think I'll go for the white over the tin foil. It'll go better in my living room. Dora

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Tomato Starting Discussion

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