Cherry tomatoes, which are known botanically as Lycopersicum, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing cherry tomatoes as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Cherry Tomatoes
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the cherry tomato seeds in the spring after all threat of frost has passed. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when cherry tomatoes are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Cherry Tomatoes the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing cherry tomatoes in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your cherry tomatoes grow. Generally, your soil should be except for heavy clay, these plants will grow in almost all soil types. Soil PH levels should be around 6.2 to 6.5.
3″ apart in rows. 2′ apart in rows. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about .25″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your cherry tomato seedlings thinning when seedlings reach 2-3 weeks of age or approximately 3-4 inches.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Cherry Tomatoes
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your cherry tomatoes. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your cherry tomatoes should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Cherry Tomatoes
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your cherry tomatoes do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your cherry tomatoes begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Cherry Tomatoes to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your cherry tomatoes grow.
It takes approximately 7-10 days to germinate, and a total of 70-75 days from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Cherry Tomatoes
The best time to harvest your cherry tomatoes is when their color changes from green to red.
Cherry tomatoes can grow up to about 25 to 35mm in diameter .
What Can Cherry Tomatoes Be Used For?
Food Use: Cherry tomatoes go great in salads or used as an appetizer.
Flavor Profile: Bite-sized and extra sweet.
Can Cherry Tomatoes Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you will need a large container that is at least 12″+ wide. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your cherry tomatoes around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Cherry Tomatoes Safe for Bees?
Yes, cherry tomatoes are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing cherry tomatoes is bee-friendly.
