Tomatoes 101

How to grow the best tomatoes ever!

Cluster of ripe red tomatoes on the vine, with green leaves in the background

Tomatoes are the crown jewel of the summer garden—sweet, sun-ripened, and worth every bit of fuss. But let’s be honest… they can also be a little dramatic. 🍅


If you’ve ever had tomatoes crack, stop setting fruit, or sulk in the heat, don’t give up! Here’s how to grow the best crop yet:


🌞 Water Consistently (But Not Too Much)

Tomatoes hate extremes. In containers? Water daily—keep the soil moist but not soggy.


🌿 Feed for Flavor

Once your first fruits reach golf ball size, side dress with a balanced fertilizer (3 TBSP per plant). Repeat every 3 weeks—this is like giving your tomatoes their favorite snack.


🍅 Harvest Like a Pro

Pick tomatoes as soon as they blush with a healthy pink glow. Let them ripen indoors (70–75°F) for perfect flavor. Pro tip: harvesting often keeps plants productive.


❄️ Beat the Fall Frost

Before the first killing frost, pick all green fruit. Wrap them individually in paper and store at 60°F—they’ll ripen gradually.


✨ Michelle’s Tip: Tomatoes don’t forgive neglect. A little love every week gives you that unforgettable burst of garden-fresh flavor.


📍 The Landscape Connection

4472 S. Mulford Rd. | Rockford, IL

(815) 874-8733 | www.TheLandscapeConnection.net

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