To grow cherry tomatoes from seed, start with a little extra heat to encourage germination, harden off the seedlings after the last frost date, and then move them to the garden.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Start Seeds Indoors (Recommended): This gives your cherry tomatoes a head start, especially in regions with shorter growing seasons. Start 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost.
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Provide Warmth for Germination: Use a heat mat or a warm location to maintain a soil temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C) for optimal germination. This encourages successful sprouting.
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Harden Off Seedlings: Once the danger of frost has passed, gradually acclimate your tomato seedlings to outdoor conditions. This process, called hardening off, involves exposing them to increasing amounts of sunlight and wind over a period of 1-2 weeks.
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Transplant to the Garden: After hardening off, transplant your cherry tomato seedlings into the garden in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
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Provide Support: Cherry tomato plants can get quite large and heavy, so provide support such as stakes, cages, or trellises.
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Water and Fertilize Regularly: Water deeply and consistently, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize regularly with a balanced tomato fertilizer according to package instructions.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow cherry tomatoes from seed and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
