Every Bonnie tomato label tells you to plant them deep enough so that two thirds of the plant is below ground. In other words, if you buy a 10-inch plant, all but the top three to four inches are buried. Why? Because the plant will have a better, stronger root system. Better roots mean better tomatoes.
Every Bonnie tomato label tells you to plant them deep enough so that two thirds of the plant is below ground. That means if you buy a 10-inch plant, all but the top 3 to 4 inches are buried. Why? Because the plant will have a better, stronger root system. Better roots mean better tomatoes.
We know, we know. This goes against everything youve ever heard about “dont plant too deep or youll kill the plant. In tomato plants, that rule doesn’t apply because they can grow more roots along the buried stem. These extra roots make the plant stronger so it can hold more fruit and handle hot weather better. (This applies whether youre growing in the ground, in a raised bed, or in a container. ).
Now comes the fun part. In about two months, your plants with super-strong roots will give you a huge harvest of delicious fruit!
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!
How to PLANT TOMATOES (the Best Way)
FAQ
Can you plant tomatoes directly in the ground?
When should tomatoes be planted in the ground?
Can I just dig a hole and plant tomatoes?
What should I add to my soil before planting tomatoes?
How do you plant Tomatoes in the ground?
The best thing for planting tomatoes is to get them as deep in the ground as you can. Tomato plants love to be buried as deep as you can get them. So prep the seedlings by pruning off the lower leaves. Leave at least 2 sets of leaves above the soil and everything else pruned and in the ground. You don’t want any leaves buried in the ground.
Should you plant Tomatoes deep in the soil?
Planting tomatoes deep in the soil sets the stage for sturdy, strong plants. Ones that will grow stronger and produce far more tomatoes! When it comes to many garden crops, you typically want to avoid planting them too deeply in the soil. This can cause the stem of the plants to quickly rot due to excess soil exposure and moisture.
Can Tomato plants go into the ground too early?
More than anything else, allowing the soil to warm before planting is crucial to prevent Tomato plants from being stunted or damaged by cool soil and nights. The number one mistake gardeners make with Tomato plants is planting too early.
How to plant a tomato plant in a container?
1. Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of your tomato plants. Space the holes according to the recommended spacing for your chosen variety. 2. Remove the tomato plant from its container carefully, taking care not to damage the roots. 3. Place the tomato plant in the hole, ensuring the root ball is covered with soil. 4.