Tomatoes contain a nutrient called lycopene that has been shown in studies to help protect against breast, pancreatic, prostate, and intestinal cancers, and may help to reduce the risk of heart attacks. They are also a source of Vitamins C, A and E, potassium, and fibre.



Tomato Growing Instructions & Care



Tomatoes are a warm season, frost tender annual plants. Seeds require a warm soil of between 18 - 28°C to germinate. Sowing at too low a temperature will cause delayed or failed germination.



When to Sow

Temperate Area: sow in early spring - either inside with extra bottom heat by using a bottom heat propagator, behind a sunny window or on top of a hot water system; if sowing outside wait until all frost danger has passed and the soil is warm. Generally, if starting tomato seeds inside then begin 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. By sowing early there will be time for a good crop to be produced before the first frost in winter.

Subtropical Area: sow March - October in frost-free areas

Tropical Area: sow late April - July.

Hot & Humid Area: On extremely hot days tomatoes can literally 'cook' on the vine and turn to mush. Tomatoes also can suffer sunburn; a white shade cloth cover can help reduce heat stress on the plants. The hardiest tomatoes for hot and humid conditions are Cherry and Roma types. For a round tomato Tropic is a good choice as it is disease resistant.



Seed Sowing & Care

Sow 6 mm deep into seed raising mix in seedling pots or trays. Germination takes 7 - 14 days. Liquid feed the seedlings once germinated. Seedlings are ready to transplant when the 2nd set of 'true' leaves appear. During seedling development make sure the seedlings are not crowded and receive strong light. Seedlings become leggy (etiolated) with weak stems if the light is insufficient or if they are too crowded. The best seedlings have strong, stout stems.

Seedlings should be planted out in a full sun position after all frost danger has passed.



Plant in rows 90 cm apart with 45 - 60 cm between plants.

Transplant by planting seedlings deeper, up to the first set of 'true' leaves, first carefully removing the seed leaves. This speed up fruit production and increases root depth.
Grow in a fertile, well-drained garden bed with a soil pH 5.8 - 7. Prepare the soil by adding compost. If stakes are required, then put them at the same time as transplanting takes place to avoid later root disturbance. Providing support to keep fruit clear of the ground helps keep fruit clean and prevents slug and snail damage. Mulch the plants well. Keep well fertilized and evenly watered.