Use this gardening guide to learn how to grow tomatoes from seed.
How to Grow Tomatoes from Seed
There are many varieties of tomatoes out there but they all start from seeds. Just about every type you grow will be grown in a similar fashion. Tomatoes are arguably one of the most versatile foods out there and are just about found in most recipes in some way or form. From delicious marinara sauces to sweet slices on sandwiches, tomatoes grace our plates for many meals. Growing tomatoes is fairly simple and a great project even if you do it from an apartment balcony as they grow well in containers. Here are some great tips on how to start tomatoes from seed.
How to Grow Tomatoes from Seed
First, make sure you have a warm spot you can grow your seedlings in. Tomatoes need warmth and sun to properly germinate and grow. Ideally, this would be one with full sun exposure for the day and over 70 degrees.
Next, consider sowing your seeds in plastic or paper containers (such as yogurt containers or paper cups) for ease of transplanting in a couple of weeks. You will want to start your seeds approximately 4-6 weeks before you plant them outside in the Spring.
Fill each container with seed starter mix about ½ inch from the top. Place 1-2 tomato seeds on the tip. Cover each with a very thin layer of seed starting mix. Gently press it in a bit.
Sprinkle water over the top. Keep soil moist for the germination process, but do not leave it soggy for best results. Place your seed starts in a warm area that gets at least 4-6 hours of sun a day minimum and can keep the soil at around 60 degrees or warmer throughout the day. You can use a seed starting heating pad if you need to to keep the soil as warm as possible and speed up germination and growth. You can also cover your seeds lightly with a layer of plastic wrap.Just be sure to remove the cover when you have sprouts so they don’t rot.
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