Tomatoes

Tomatoes range from small and sweet (cherry) to meaty and low-moisture (Roma) to big and juicy (beefsteak). Great for snacking, sauces, slicing, and more.

• Tomatoes are annuals in Minnesota.

• Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours daily).

• Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil.

• Transplanting: Plant deep, burying up to the first set of leaves to promote strong roots.

• Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) early in growth, then switch to one high in phosphorus and potassium (low nitrogen) once fruiting begins. Add calcium to prevent blossom-end rot. Fertilize every 1–2 weeks.

• Other tips:

  • Stake or cage plants early to prevent damage

  • Prune suckers for better airflow & fruit production, trim lower leaves to avoid soil-borne diseases.

  • Cherry and Beefsteak tomatoes are indeterminate vines, so they will keep growing all season (up to 8 feet tall). I grow them in large pots with a cage, and weave them up 1 side, then down the next as they grow.

  • Roma tomatoes are determinate, so they will grow to 3-5 ft tall. I grow them in large pots with a strong cage.