Tomatoes Seeded in Raised Beds
Answered by: Ginny
Question from: Beatrice
Posted on: October 20, 2010

Can I plant tomato seeds in a container or raised bed?

Tomatoes can be grown in raised beds or pots of 2 gallon size or larger. A word of caution...if you are using a raised bed made of lumber, be sure to avoid toxic pressure-treated wood. Instead, use cedar or other natural wood that you have on hand. Tomatoes must be grown in a site that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Prepare a soil with 1/3 part organic compost added. Fill your pot or raised bed with this mix. Sprinkle the tomato seeds over the soil and cover lightly with a thin layer of approximately 1/8th inch or less of soil. Tamp and water in gently. Keep the seeds evenly moist, and they should germinate within 7-10 days, with a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. Thin the seedlings so that only one sturdy plant remains, with spacing in mind of about 3 feet. Most varieties of tomato benefit from the use of tomato cages or stakes to keep the plants growing upwards. This will improve air circulation, which helps keep pests and disease at a minimum, as well as keeping the fruit off the soil. Feed the plants every 2 weeks with a half strength application of organic fertilizer such as fish emulsion. Good luck and enjoy your tomatoes.

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