Tomatoes are a staple in summer salads and sauces, but sweet, plump fruits are difficult to yield from homegrown plants.
Gardeners who have tried growing tomatoes in the past will know that they require year-round care for a bountiful summer harvest. For those yet to try it, February is a prime time to sow seeds.
Angharad James, product manager at Maxicrop, said: “Tomato seeds can be sown as early as late February, but as the temperatures are still very chilly outside, it’s always best to start them off indoors.
“Contrary to what some may believe, you don’t need a greenhouse to grow tomatoes – a sunny kitchen windowsill will work just as well.”
The gardening expert said the secret to growing the juiciest tomatoes is to ensure the plant has a steady supply of nutrients to support fruit production.
Angharad explained: “Tomatoes are heavy feeders, requiring specific nutrient levels at different stages of their growth.
“Early on, nitrogen is vital for healthy leaf and stem development, helping to establish a strong, robust plant. As flowering begins, potassium becomes essential, promoting the formation of flowers and fruits.”
Meanwhile, phosphorus supports root growth and overall plant vigour throughout the growing season. “It’s, therefore, essential that you feed your plants using a specialist tomato fertiliser for a successful yield”, said the Maxicrop manager.
Of course, feeding newly planted tomatoes should only happen when the seedlings are steadily growing. Sowing seeds is a simple process.
Start by filling seed trays or small pots with good-quality, peat-free compost, lightly firming the surface. Place the seeds on top of the soil about one to two centimetres apart and cover them with a fine layer of compost or vermiculite.
Water lightly and place in a warm, sunny position. Angharad said covering the seed with cling film or half an upturned plastic bottle will help create a consistent temperature and moisture level, like a mini propagator.
She added: “The seed will begin germinating within two or three weeks, and you should see a seedling sprout through the compost. Continue to water seedlings regularly.
“As they grow, the seedlings can be potted into individual pots so that each plant has its own space to flourish.”
When the risk of frost has passed, usually in May, tomato plants can be moved outside into larger pots or well-prepared soil. Tomatoes thrive in sunny, sheltered locations with six to eight hours of sunlight daily, so south-facing spots are usually best for them.
As for feeding, Angharad recommends using Maxicrop’s Tomato Growth Stimulant and Feed, which is specifically designed for tomatoes.
She said: “Its highly concentrated formulation is rich in potash (NPK 4-2-6), helping plants produce plentiful, juicy, and flavourful fruits.”
This product is formulated with seaweed extract, which is sustainably sourced from Norwegian waters and stimulates strong, healthy growth. It also encourages plants to build tolerance to pests, diseases and environmental stresses.
The gardening expert said: “Simply add to your watering can and apply to the base of plants every seven days once the first trusses – or stems that support flowers and fruits – have appeared.”