Tomato Growing Secrets: pH, Planting Depth, Pruning, and More

Soil pH

Target 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic). Test with kit. Lower with compost/manure in fall.

Start Early Indoors

4″ pots, one seed each, morning sun windowsill. Moist not soggy.

Deep Planting

Bury up to first true leaves—stems sprout roots for stronger plant.

Remove Lower Leaves

At 2–3 ft tall, strip bottom leaves to prevent soil-borne fungus/rot.

Pinch Suckers

Remove growths in stem “V”s—they steal nutrients, never fruit.

Sun & Water Discipline

Full sun. Consistent watering—irregular causes blossom end rot; overwatering causes rot.