Growing tomatoes from seed is a rewarding experience that offers the satisfaction of harvesting your own fresh, juicy fruits. In this guide, we’ll take you through every step of the journey, from selecting seeds to enjoying your first harvest. Choosing the Right Tomato Seeds Tomatoes come in a dazzling array of varieties, each with its own unique flavour and purpose. Whether you’re drawn to the reliable 'Roma' for making sauces (Roma Tomato Seeds) or the distinctive taste of 'Cherokee Purple' (Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds), Marshalls Garden provides seed options to suit every preference and garden size. Selecting the right variety is the first step in ensuring a successful and enjoyable growing experience. Preparing to Grow Tomato Seeds To give your tomato seeds the best start, it’s essential to create the ideal growing environment. Begin by preparing a well-draining seed starting mix. A blend of peat, perlite, and vermiculite offers a nutrient-rich medium that promotes strong root development. Once your mix is ready, sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or small pots. Cover them lightly with soil, and water gently to maintain consistent moisture levels. Tomato seeds thrive in warm conditions, so keep their environment at a temperature of 20-25°C. If needed, use a heat mat to achieve the desired warmth. Ensure they receive ample light, whether from natural sunlight or artificial grow lights, to encourage sturdy and healthy seedlings. When to Sow Tomato Seeds in the UK Timing is critical when it comes to sowing tomato seeds. In the UK, it’s best to start seeds indoors between late February and early April. This timing allows your plants to grow strong indoors before being transplanted outdoors after the last frost. Typically, you’ll want to move them outside in late May or early June, once the risk of frost has fully passed. Growing Tomato Seedlings As your seedlings begin to develop, they will eventually need more space to continue growing. When they have at least two sets of true leaves and are sturdy enough to handle, transfer them to larger pots. This will give them room to establish a stronger root system. Before planting them outside, harden off the seedlings by gradually acclimatising them to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them outdoors during the day for a week or two, increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and varying temperatures. Once they’re ready, plant them in well-prepared garden soil or large containers in a sunny spot, spacing them 18-24 inches apart for good air circulation. Caring for Tomato Plants Tomato plants require consistent care to reach their full potential. Support them with stakes, cages, or trellises to prevent sprawling and to keep the fruits off the ground. Regular pruning is also beneficial, especially for indeterminate varieties. Removing lower leaves and side shoots improves air circulation and ensures the plant’s energy is directed towards fruit production. Water your tomato plants regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Feeding them with a balanced, tomato-specific fertiliser throughout the growing season will further enhance their growth and yield. Sold out Sold out Sold out Harvesting Your Tomatoes As summer progresses, your hard work will pay off with a rewarding harvest. Tomatoes are ready to pick when they reach their full colour and feel firm yet slightly soft to the touch. Enjoy the fruits of your labour fresh from the vine, or use them in your favourite recipes. You can also preserve them to savour their flavour long after the growing season ends. Growing tomatoes from seed is a journey that requires care and patience, but the results are incredibly satisfying. With Marshalls Garden’s high-quality seeds and expert guidance, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, homegrown tomatoes. Start your tomato-growing adventure today!