Growing Tomatoes Indoors Over Winter

Moving a garden tomato plant indoors for winter fruiting is challenging. Tomatoes need intense light—about 400 watts of fluorescent light for 16 hours daily—and temperatures above 70°F. A sunny window rarely provides enough.

An easier option: use an AeroGarden or similar hydroponic system with built-in grow lights. These compact units deliver the spectrum and duration tomatoes need to set fruit indoors.

If you try potting a garden plant, cut it back hard, repot in fresh mix, and place under strong artificial lights. Expect lower yields than outdoor plants.