Introduction

Tomatoes need plenty of sunshine. They generally need three months of warm, frost free weather to produce well.

Grafted plants take up more space in the garden and are more expensive than seedlings. But one single plant produces huge amounts of tomatoes, two plants can provide a season`s supply for a whole family. The difference is that each variety is grafted onto a new set of roots. These roots are of a vigorous disease resistant variety (not necessarily with the tastiest fruit) so that the vigour is passed onto the variety which is grafted on top producing bigger, very high yielding plants of your chosen hybrid variety.

When to Plant

The weather rather than the calender date, is the determining factor. They generally need three months of warm, frost free weather to produce well. With protection plants can be grown from August onwards. Labour weekend is the traditional time for planting tomatoes but they can be planted outdoors as soon as conditions allow, usually any time from September onwards.

Soil and Position

Tomatoes need plenty of sunshine. Any free draining soil which is rich in organic matter is ideal. The vigorous growing grafted tomatoes need protection from strong winds. Against a wall, fence or trellis is ideal. Prepare the soil by adding liberal amounts of compost and digging through deeply.

Planting

Plant grafted tomatoes at least 2-3mt apart. Remember they grow quite large so do not overcrowd. Prepare the soil as per above. Water the plant in it`s container and allow to drain. Plant without disturbing the rootball and ensure that the graft union (the part covered with tape) is about 12mm above the ground. Firm the soil gently and tie the plant to a small stake to prevent toppling.

Staking

It is a good idea to position stakes for all varieties at planting time to avoid damaging the roots later on. Overhead wires with strings to climb up can also be used.

Feeding and Watering

Tomatoes with their rapid growth rate are both thirsty and hungry. It is very important to water regularly in dry weather. The plants must not be allowed to dry out. They do not like wet feet though so take care that water does not lie around and become stagnant. Mulching is an excellent way of conserving moisture in summer. Butlers, Results compost or peat are all ideal for this purpose. As plants grow and become loaded with fruit their requirement for water will increase. Once the small fruit appear supplement your initial ground preparation with a fortnightly feed of a balanced fertiliser such as Tui Tomator Food. Water thoroughly after feeding.

Harvesting

It is a good idea to pick fruit before it is fully coloured and still quite firm. This helps fruit keep longer and relieves the plant of its load allowing it to keep on the job of producing more crops.

Pests and Diseases

As mentioned earlier grafted tomatoes are less prone to pests and diseases. However for complete protection spray fortnightly with a general purpose insecticide/fungicide. Mavrik will target white fly.

Growing Tomatoes is one of the most rewarding gardening activities and an easy way to start children gardening. They are easy to grow and quickly provide the freshest of tasty results.