Tomatoes are pretty easy to grow and take off until maturity. But sometimes simple mistakes can hugely affect their growth. For a beginner gardener looking to grow tomatoes, you want to get it right from the start.
This involves everything from choosing the right variety to the right growing location. When it comes to the right place to grow tomatoes, the choice is between containers and the ground.
So, is it better to grow tomatoes in the ground or in a container? Tomatoes tend to grow better in the ground than in containers. But there are varieties like the dwarf that do well in containers. So if ground space is an issue, you can still grow some varieties in containers.
What’s more important is providing high-nutrient soil that is loose and drains well. Indeterminate tomato varieties that grow large and have an extensive root system are best suited for ground growing.
There are a few factors to consider when deciding to grow tomatoes in pots or in the ground.
Keep reading below to learn more.
The Best Soil for Tomatoes
Tomatoes grow best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. The soil should also be high in organic matter. This helps to improve soil structure and retain moisture.
To prepare the soil for planting tomatoes, it is a good idea to mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to provide the plants with additional nutrients. You can also add some lime to the soil to raise the pH if it is too low, or sulfur to lower the pH if it is too high.
It is also important to make sure that the soil is loose and not compacted, as this can prevent the roots from growing properly. You can use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil before planting.
Finally, it is a good idea to test the soil before planting to determine the nutrient levels and pH. You can use a soil testing kit or send a soil sample to a laboratory for testing. This will help you to determine if you need to add any additional nutrients or adjust the pH of the soil before planting.
So if you can get the right mixture of soil in the container, your tomatoes will do well as those in the ground.
Planting and Fertilizing Tomatoes in Pots vs in the Ground
Growing tomatoes in pots or containers can be a great option for those with limited space or soil quality. Here are some tips for planting and fertilizing tomatoes in pots:
- Choose a pot that is at least 20 inches wide and deep, with drainage holes at the bottom.
- Use a good quality potting mix specifically formulated for tomatoes or mix your own using equal parts compost, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite.
- Plant your tomato seedlings or transplants at the same depth as they were in their original pots, making sure to leave enough space between plants for proper airflow.
- Water your tomatoes regularly, especially during dry spells, and be sure to monitor the moisture level of the soil. Stephanie from Backyard Gardeners Network said tomatoes grown in pots tend to have blossom end rot more than tomatoes grow in the ground because it’s harder to keep the moisture level constant.
- Fertilize your tomatoes every two to four weeks with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer, following the instructions on the package.
When planting tomatoes in the ground, it is important to choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Be sure to prepare the soil by tilling or digging to a depth of at least 12 inches, and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Follow the same planting and fertilizing guidelines as pots.
How About Access to Sun and Water
Tomatoes require about 8 hours of sunlight a day. So when planting in the ground, make sure you choose a location that receives sun most of the day. The same applies to potted tomatoes. Make sure you keep them in a sunny spot. Choose a patio location that receives a lot of sunshine.
Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require consistent watering. Container tomatoes might require more water than those in the ground. Make sure they receive at least 1 to 2 inches of water per week.
You need to soak the soil well but don’t overwater. Overwatering can make the root system rot. Your container should be porous to ensure good drainage. However, this also means taking extra care to ensure they don’t get dry too fast.
Final Verdict
You can grow tomatoes in pots, or in the ground. But the best place is usually on the ground where you don’t have space issues. Tomatoes grown in the ground require little care as opposed to those grown in containers.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t grow tomatoes in containers. Some varieties can do well in pots and produce great results as those grown in the ground. Overall, if you’re growing tomatoes in pots, then you need more consistent care like watering and fertilizing.
Source:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato
https://backyardgardenersnetwork.org/vegetables/tomatoes/
http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/sceneea10.html