Tomatoes are among gardeners' favorite vegetables to grow. Many gardeners take pride in growing the largest tomatoes they possibly can. A few easy steps will help any gardener grow prize-worthy tomatoes. Does this Spark an idea?
Full Sun
Plant tomatoes in full sun -- the more the better. Give them plenty of room to grow so they don't shade each other.
Soil
Tomatoes require regular moisture and plenty of nutrients. Put them on the right track by planting them in well-drained, organically rich soils with lots of compost or rotted manure. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture.
Care
Regular fertilization maintains soil fertility and nutrient uptake. Keeping soils consistently moist, but never soggy, maximizes growth of both tomato plants and fruit. Even moisture also keeps the tender skin of the fruit from cracking.
Plant Selection
Plant tomato varieties that are known to bear large fruit. Beefsteak, Delicious and Beefmaster all bear fruit weighing in at one pound or more. Brandywine is an old-fashioned variety favored for its large size and tangy flavor. Prune to a single vine or stalk with one side branch to encourage huge tomatoes.
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