Sow early tomatoes

Get plants started now, for bigger plants and bigger crops, says AG garden writer, Michelle Wheeler

If you have a heated propagator or a space on a warm, bright windowsill, sow tomatoes seeds this weekend. Here’s how:

1 Fill a 3in (9cm) pot with good quality seed compost; level the surface, firm down and water in. Pots are better than modular trays for tomatoes as they have more space for vigorous root growth.

2 Sow three seeds per pot, ensuring there is space between them so they do not touch each other as they grow. Cover with a fine layer of sieved compost and water with a fine rose watering can.

Aftercare

• Early sowings are best kept in the greenhouse but outdoor plants can be hardened  off slowly for June planting.
• Mulch around outdoor plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
• Once flowers show, feed weekly with a seaweed feed or specific tomato feed.
• Once indoor cordons have set 6-8 trusses (outdoor 4 trusses), pinch out the growing point at the top.
• Remove yellowing leaves when seen.
• Water plants regularly and evenly.

Tags: AG, Amateur Gardening, early tomatoes, greenhouse tomatoes, Michelle Wheeler, sow toms, sowing tomatoes, tomato seeds