How To Grow Tomatoes | Kings Seeds

Growing tomatoes in NZ is a classic pastime and one of the most rewarding and delicious plants to grow in your garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, growing your own tomatoes can be a fun and satisfying experience. In this guide, we'll take you through the essential steps on how to grow tomatoes from seed to harvest.

 

Prepare Your Garden

Before you get started, choose a sunny spot in your garden. Tomatoes love sunshine, so aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Prepare your soil by mixing in some compost, soil enhancer or well-rotted manure. This not only nourishes your plants but also improves drainage. Aim for a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8 for optimal growth. You can buy a specific tomato potting mix if you're not yet confident in soil testing.

 

Sowing Tomato Seeds 

The adventure begins here; there are so many seeds to choose from! Do you want them all ready at the same time (determinate varieties) to make that big batch of grandma's pasta sauce or are you looking forward to a constant summer supply (indeterminate varieties) that will provide throughout the growing season for all your salad and ratatouille needs.

 

Start your tomato seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Fill seed trays with a seed-raising mix, plant the seeds about 6mm deep and water lightly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and place the trays in a warm location—Soil needs to be between 20°C and 30°C for germination, a heat pad can help in reaching these temperatures.Once the seedlings sprout, make sure they get plenty of light to grow strong and healthy, they may also require potting on as they get bigger, prior to being transplanted in to the garden.

 

Planting and Spacing Your Tomato Seeds

When it's time to plant your seedlings outdoors, harden them off by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions over a week. When planting, space holes 60cm apart within a row and 90cm between rows, allowing plenty of room for air circulation, which helps prevent disease. If you're using large varieties, consider spacing them even further apart. Plant the seedlings deep, burying two-thirds of the stem, leaving the top leaves exposed. This helps establish a stronger root system. Finish off with a good feed of seaweed soil enhancer to really help it settle in. 

 

How to Stake Tomatoes

Staking your tomatoes is essential for preventing disease and keeping your fruit off the ground. You can use wooden stakes, cages, or trellises. If using stakes, drive them into the ground beside your plants at the time of planting, and as the plants grow, gently tie the stems to the stakes using soft ties, such as wool or cotton. If using cages, position them early in the growing season. This support allows your tomatoes to flourish and makes harvesting easier! There are bush varieties of tomatoes that do not require staking, check out our video on determinate vs. indeterminate tomatoes and the difference.

 

Care & Maintenance for Tomato Plants

Regular care is crucial for a bountiful tomato harvest. Give plants a deep watering three times a week, adjusting based on weather conditions. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilise once a month with a balanced fertiliser, such as seaweed & herb tonic, to ensure your plants get the nutrients they need. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases; common culprits include aphids and blight.

 

Tips and Tricks for Growing Tomatoes

- Choose the Right Varieties: Popular choices include Beefsteak (brandywine, ananas noire and black krim) for big, juicy slices. Cherry tomatoes (orange cherry, cherry berry F1 and Matt's wild cherry) for snacking. Roma varieties (Sicilian sauce F1, speckled roman and crème brulee) for sauces.

- Timing is Key: In NZ, the best time to plant tomato seedlings is after the last frost, usually around late October to mid-November.

- Prune Wisely: Remove suckers (side shoots/laterals) that develop in the leaf axils to promote better airflow and more fruitful plants.

- Companion Planting: Plant basil or marigolds nearby as they can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

 

How to Grow Tomatoes Step-By-Step

1. Choose a sunny location with free-draining soil.

2. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.

3. Harden off seedlings by gradually acclimatising them to outdoor conditions.

4. Plant seedlings deeply and space them 60cm apart.

5. Stake or cage plants for support as they grow.

6. Water, mulch and fertilise regularly for optimal growth.

7. Monitor for pests and trim as needed to maintain healthy plants.

  

Growing Tomatoes FAQs

How long do tomatoes take to grow?

Tomatoes typically take 80 to 90 days from transplanting to harvest, depending on the variety.

What month to plant tomatoes in NZ?

In New Zealand, plant tomatoes from September to December, plant seedlings outside after the last frost.

Do you remove side shoots from tomato plants?

Yes, removing side shoots (suckers/laterals) helps the plant focus its energy on producing fruit.

How do you care for a tomato plant?

Care includes regular watering, staking, using mulch, fertilising and monitoring for pests and diseases.

 

Enjoy the journey of growing your delicious tomatoes and all the tasty meals that will be created from your harvests. Head to our website to browse over 50 tomato seed varieties, catering to every taste and need; place your order, grab your gardening tools, roll up your sleeves and let's get growing tomatoes!