Tomato

Growing

Transplant tomato seedlings into the garden once the soil has warmed and the danger of frost has passed. Because these plants are vigorous vines, provide sturdy support like cages or stakes to manage their climbing or trailing habit. Bush varieties may stay compact, but larger indeterminate types need substantial support as they grow. In some climates you can try dry-farming, which limits irrigation to encourage the root system to grow deep in search of moisture.

Check your foliage for signs of trouble. Pests like tomato hornworms, aphids, and beetles can defoliate plants, and diseases such as tobacco mosaic virus can spread through contact with infected tobacco products. If the top leaves become abnormally wrinkled, the plant may have curly top disease. Handle plants with clean hands and keep tobacco away from the garden.

Harvest the fruit carefully when it reaches your desired color and softness. For long-term use, freeze tomatoes after blanching, or can or dry them. To eat them fresh, store the fruit at room temperature and keep it unwashed until use to prevent spoilage.