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In India, tomatoes are used to make everyday curries, festive dishes, soups, salads or even grilled with meat in a tandoor. The best part about growing tomatoes is whether you have a large garden, a small balcony, or even a sunny windowsill, you can successfully cultivate tomatoes with the right care and attention. When you grow tomatoes at home correctly they usually far surpass those found in stores.
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There are more than 1000 varieties of tomatoes cultivated in India. However, only a few are commercially available and others are consumed locally. Consider the climate in your region and choose a variety that thrives in your specific conditions. For example, cherry tomatoes are ideal for hot climates as they are heat-tolerant. Hybrid varieties are usually better because they offer better disease resistance and higher yields, while heirloom tomatoes usually taste better. You can pick a variety based on your preference for taste, size, and growth conditions.
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The best place to start is by buying high-quality seeds from a reliable source. It’s important to make sure that they are disease-free and suited to your local climate, while buying. Once this is done the seeds can be started indoors in seed trays or in small pots. Use a seed-starting mix and plant seeds about ¼ inch deep. Keep the soil moist and place the trays in a warm, sunny spot. Seedlings usually emerge in 7-14 days.
Once the seedlings are 6-8 inches tall and have a few sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted. At this point its best to gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over a week’s time.
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Planting The Tomatoes
In most parts of India, tomatoes can be planted twice a year – once before the monsoon (April-June) and once after the monsoon (September-November). Heavy rain needs to be avoided as that can damage the plants. Like most crops, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter is best for tomatoes. It’s important to check that the soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.8. You can add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility of the soil and make sure it is nourished.
For tomatoes, you will need to choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you're growing tomatoes in pots, use containers that are at least 12 inches deep to allow proper root growth.
When transplanting, bury two-thirds of the plant, including the lower leaves. This helps strong root development as tomatoes can grow roots along their stems.
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Watering The Plant
Tomatoes require consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting. This can be tricky as it needs to be watered deeply but not often. Also remember to avoid wetting the leaves. Water in the leaves increases the risk of fungal diseases in them.
In hotter regions, the plant will need shade during the peak afternoon heat and will also need water more frequently. In cooler areas, use row covers to protect young plants from unexpected cold snaps.
Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of the plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
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Caring For The Plant
Tomatoes need a balanced fertiliser during planting and then a phosphorus-rich fertiliser when the plants begin to flower. The plant needs to be fertilised every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Remove the side shoots that grow to direct energy toward fruit production. However, don't over-prune, as the leaves protect the fruit from the hot sun. Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support the plants as they grow. This keeps the fruit off the ground, improves the air circulation and reduces the risk of diseases.
Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and using neem oil or insecticidal soap can be a natural deterrent against harmful pests. It is important that there is good air circulation so space the plants appropriately.
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Harvesting Tomatoes
Harvest tomatoes when they are fully coloured and slightly firm. Gently twist the fruit to avoid damaging the plant. Store the tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight to maintain their flavour. Refrigerate them only if they are overripe or need to be preserved longer.
