For gardeners who want to grow big, healthy tomatoes, planting them properly in the ground is an essential first step When you give your tomato plants the right start by planting them deep in the ground, it helps promote strong root development and gives them the foundation they need to reach their full potential In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about successfully planting tomatoes in the ground.

Why Plant Tomatoes Deep?

Most gardeners are familiar with the advice to plant tomatoes “deep deep. deep.” but why is that best practice? Here are the key reasons planting tomatoes deeply benefits the plants

• Tomato stems can form roots along the buried portion, leading to a more extensive root system. More roots mean the plant can take up more water and nutrients to support growth.

• Deep roots anchor the plant better and make it more stable and resilient against things like wind and heavy rain.

• A large, deep root system can help reduce issues like blossom end rot by allowing the plant to take up calcium and water from a larger soil area.

• In general, deep planting reduces transplant shock and helps young plants establish quickly.

How Deep to Plant Tomatoes

When setting your tomato transplants in the garden, you can bury up to two-thirds of the stem underground. That means if you have a 10 inch tall tomato plant, you would plant it so only the top 3-4 inches remain above the soil surface.

The lowest leaves and even some stems will be buried. It’s fine to pinch these off before planting if it makes fitting the plant in the hole easier. Don’t worry – the stem will still sprout roots and the plant will be perfectly happy!

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Tomatoes in the Ground

Follow these steps for properly planting your tomatoes deep in the garden:

Choose a Sunny Spot

Tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of full sun per day. Select a sunny, open area of your garden.

Prepare the Soil

Work aged compost or organic matter into the native soil to improve texture and nutrients. Fast-draining soil is ideal.

Dig Deep Holes

Dig holes 12-18 inches deep and 18-24 inches wide. The holes should be big enough to accommodate two-thirds of the transplant.

Fill Holes and Soak

Fill holes with water and let drain fully. Refill with high-quality potting mix or planting soil.

Plant Tomato Transplants

Carefully remove transplants from pots and plant deeply in holes. Leave only top 2-4 inches exposed.

Water and Mulch

Water transplants well after planting. Spread 2-3 inches of mulch around plants to retain moisture.

Stake or Cage

Install tomato cages or stakes when planting to support plants as they grow.

Best Practices for Planting Tomatoes in the Ground

Follow these tips to ensure your tomatoes get the healthiest start when planted in the garden:

• Prepare soil 4-6 weeks before planting with compost and nutrients. Dig in fertilizer or aged manure.

• Wait until after the last spring frost date to plant transplants. Warm soil is critical.

• Water tomato plants thoroughly the day before transplanting to avoid water stress.

• Handle seedlings gently when removing from pots to avoid disturbing roots.

• Plant on a cloudy day or in late afternoon to avoid transplant shock.

• Use only high quality potting mix or planting soil – not rough native soil.

• Space plants 24-48 inches apart depending on variety. Give them room to grow.

• Mulch after planting to conserve moisture and reduce weeds. Replenish mulch as needed.

• Watch for cutworms and other pests that may attack young transplants.

Tomato Varieties to Plant Deep

You can bury most tomato varieties deeply with great results. Some top varieties that particularly thrive when planted deep include:

• Beefsteak – Large, juicy red heirloom perfect for slicing
• Better Boy – Reliable hybrid with impressive yields
• Brandywine – Cherished pink heirloom with superb flavor
• Celebrity – Disease resistant with robust productivity
• Cherry Tomatoes – High yielding mini fruits, great for salads
• Early Girl – Extends harvest with early ripening tomatoes
• Roma – Meaty red paste tomato ideal for sauces
• Sungold – Bursting with sweetness, these orange cherries are a favorite

No matter which types you grow, planting tomatoes deeply encourages an extensive root system that powers plant growth and leads to a bountiful harvest. Give your tomatoes a strong foundation in the garden and they’ll reward you all season long!

Frequently Asked Questions About Planting Tomatoes in the Ground

Below are answers to some common questions gardeners have about properly planting tomatoes in the garden:

Why shouldn’t you just plant tomatoes at normal depth?

Planting too shallow doesn’t allow the tomato roots to establish deeply in the ground. This makes plants prone to wilting and poor growth. Shallow roots also can’t access nutrients and moisture from a large area.

How do you keep the soil from falling in and filling up the deep holes?

Place a tomato cage or stakes in the planting holes before backfilling with soil. The cages will keep the soil in place as you fill the deep holes.

Is it okay to lay the tomato plant sideways when planting deep?

Yes, you can lay the transplant sideways in a deep trench instead of digging individual holes. Just be sure the trench is at least 5-6 inches deep and that the soil beneath isn’t too compacted or hard.

Should you remove flowers and buds before deep planting?

It’s generally recommended to pinch off any flowers and buds when transplanting tomatoes. This allows the plant to focus energy on root growth initially rather than fruit production.

How often should you water newly planted tomatoes?

Water tomato transplants at least once a week if rain is lacking. The key is to water deeply, not frequently. Allow the soil to dry out some between waterings.

When can you start fertilizing tomatoes planted in the ground?

Wait 2-3 weeks after transplanting before fertilizing tomatoes. This allows the roots to establish first. Then use a balanced fertilizer according to package directions.

How soon after planting will the buried tomato stems sprout roots?

Tomato stems begin forming new roots within 1-2 weeks of planting. Within 3-4 weeks the root system should be well established.

Deep Planting Leads to Healthy Tomatoes and Bountiful Harvests

Planting tomatoes deeply encourages vigorous root system development and gives plants the strong foundation they need for robust growth. Follow the tips in this guide to properly plant your tomatoes in the ground. With the right planting techniques, your tomato plants will be on their way to delivering a big harvest of juicy, flavorful tomatoes this season.