Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Family: Solanaceae · Genus: Solanum
The tomato is a widely cultivated plant in the nightshade family, prized for its edible fruit. Originally from western South America, it is now grown worldwide in a variety of climates.
Soil Temperature
16°C – 35°C
Spacing
40 – 60 cm
Harvest
8–17 weeks
Sowing
Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks.
Growing Schedule Zone 8b
Companions
Avoid Growing Near
Growing Notes
There is nothing like the taste of a freshly picked tomato, warm from the sunshine. In the smallest of gardens or even an apartment with a window-box, it is worth growing at least one tomato plant for the pleasure it will give you. They will grow in pots, troughs or even hanging baskets. Tomatoes should be grown in shelter or under cover in cool climates. Tomatoes like lots of food! In a garden bed, compost and mulching will produce a crop from one or two plants. In containers, use some suitable long term fertiliser pellets or feed regularly when you water. Feeding improves the flavour of the fruit. When you plant out, put the seedlings in a deep holes, up to the top set of leaves. The covered stems will put out extra roots and you will have a stronger, healthier plant.
Culinary Hints
Use in sauces, with fried meals, in sandwiches. Can be frozen whole or in pieces.