Next, while not necessary, I like to add some crushed up egg shells to the base of the hole. Tomato stems planted beneath the soil will sprout more roots, and give your little plant a stronger foundation. You’ll want it deep enough to cover an inch or two (or 3 or 4) of the tomato seedling’s stem. Or, if you’re transplanting into a larger pot, it needs to be at least a 24-inch pot.ĭig a hole 2-3 inches deeper than the depth of the pot. Once your outside temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees F., it’s time to transplant your seedlings. Planting Tomato Seedlings into the Garden

I will link what I suggest to use below this post. Something specifically made for tomatoes is best. You may also opt for a store bought fertilizer to mix into the soil prior to planting. It contains a little nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Organic coffee grounds are another soil amendment your tomato plants will appreciate. Cow manure isn’t very “hot”, but it still needs to be older/composted before using it for your tender tomato seedlings.Īnother good amendment is wood ash. Rabbit manure is a “cold” manure, which means it doesn’t need to compost before using it and it won’t burn your plants. Next, you’ll want to till in a rich compost or a composted manure.Ī rich compost will add nutrients and improve the structure of the soil.Ĭomposted manure gives a slow release of nutrients over the entire growing season of the plant. (Tomatoes like soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.2-6.8.) If planting in a raised bed, an electric or hand tiller work well. (Plus, sunflowers improve your soil!) Preparing Soil for Tomato Seedlings Sunflowers grow tall and their large leaves help filter the direct sunlight for your other plants.

You can also achieve a bit of sun relief for your tomatoes by planting sunflowers next to them. If you have a spot that is shaded in the late afternoon, or possibly a spot that gets all the morning and evening sun, but directly overhead is slightly shaded, that’s perfection. Tomato plants actually appreciate a bit of shade during the hot summer months. However, there is such a thing as “too much” sun. These plants need “full sun”, which means a minimum of 8-10 hours of sunlight a day. Tomatoes like a rich, well-drained soil in a sunny spot. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if a purchase is made through a link Choosing the Perfect Spot to Plant Tomatoes Whether you have grown your own from seeds, or purchased them ready to go, there are a few things you need to know when it comes time to transplant tomato seedlings into your garden.

Transplant tomato seedlings