The correct way to plant tomatoes is by following the advice given on the Bonnie tomato label – plant them deep, deep, deep. This means that a significant portion of the plant should be buried underground. When you purchase a 10-inch tall tomato plant, you’ll need to bury all but the top three to four inches. This practice may seem unusual or counterintuitive to some, but there are several reasons why planting tomatoes deep is beneficial.
Firstly, burying a large portion of the tomato plant helps in establishing a strong and sturdy root system. The roots are responsible for absorbing nutrients and water from the soil, providing support to the plant, and anchoring it in place. When you bury a significant portion of the stem underground, it encourages the plant to develop additional roots along the buried stem. This leads to a more extensive root system, which in turn enhances the plant’s ability to take up water and nutrients. With a robust root system, the tomato plant becomes more resilient and better equipped to withstand adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds or drought.
Additionally, burying the stem deep helps to promote the development of adventitious roots. Adventitious roots are roots that grow from non-root tissues, such as stems. When the lower portion of the tomato plant’s stem is buried, it has the potential to produce these adventitious roots. These roots can contribute to increased nutrient uptake and overall plant health. They also serve as a backup system, providing additional support and stability to the plant.
Another advantage of planting tomatoes deep is the opportunity for the buried portion of the stem to develop into additional stems and branches. These additional stems can produce more flowers and ultimately more fruit. By burying a significant portion of the stem, you are essentially encouraging the plant to branch out and increase its yield.
It is important to note that not all plants benefit from deep planting like tomatoes do. Tomatoes are unique in that they have the ability to develop roots along their stems. Other plants, such as peppers or cucumbers, do not possess this characteristic and should not be planted as deeply.
To properly plant tomatoes deep, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the soil: Choose a sunny location in your garden with well-draining soil. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its fertility and drainage.
2. Dig a deep hole: Dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the entire root ball of the tomato plant. The depth of the hole will vary depending on the size of the plant, but aim to bury at least 2/3 of the plant.
3. Remove lower leaves: Strip off the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only a few sets of leaves at the top. This reduces the risk of burying any leaves, which could rot when in contact with the soil.
4. Plant the tomato: Place the tomato plant in the hole, ensuring that the top few inches of the stem remain above ground. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it around the roots as you go. Be careful not to compact the soil too much, as it may hinder root growth.
5. Provide support: Insert a tomato cage or stake near the plant to provide support as it grows. This will help prevent the plant from toppling over under the weight of the fruit.
6. Water thoroughly: After planting, water the tomato plant thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and ensure good hydration. Water regularly throughout the growing season, aiming for consistent moisture levels without overwatering.
7. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plant. This helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Remember, every gardener has their own preferences and techniques when it comes to planting tomatoes. It’s always beneficial to experiment and find the methods that work best for your specific situation and growing conditions. Don’t be afraid to adjust and adapt your approach based on your observations and experiences in the garden. Happy tomato planting!
