Growing Great Tomatoes: Checklist

 Sun: 8 hours of direct sun a day.  No negotiation.

Wait for warmth:  Plant out once nights stay above 50°F (10°C) and soil has warmed to about 60°F (16°C).

Soil: well-drained, rich in organic matter, pH 6.2 to 6.8.

Plant on its side:  Roots form along buried stem tissue.  Planting on its side allows the roots to absorb the greatest amounts of water and nutrients, which sit close to the surface.

Spacing: 2 to 3 feet apart for good airflow.

Support: stake or cage at planting.  Be prepared for some plants to grow to 5 feet.

Pruning:  Prune all leaves 10" above the soil to prevent soil bourne diseases and spash up from watering

Water:   Very deeply and every 3 days if no rain.  Water the soil, never the leaves.  Water in the morning and never during the hot sun

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Mulch: once the soil is warm, to hold moisture and stop soil splashing onto leaves.

Feed: balanced fertilizer; too much nitrogen gives leaves, not fruit.  Magnesium at planting is a good idea.  

Rotate: Although some studies show tomatoes prefer the same spot, its not a good idea.  Member of the nightshade family (peppers, potatoes, tomatoes or eggplant) should not be planted in the same spot for 3 years if possible