Tomatoes are a warm-season, fruiting plant that are a staple in many Australian gardens. They can be bushy (determinate) or climbing (indeterminate), with the latter needing stakes or cages for support. The fruit comes in a huge range of sizes, colours, and shapes, from small cherry tomatoes to large beefsteaks. Tomatoes are highly valued for their flavour and versatility, used in everything from fresh salads and sandwiches to cooked sauces, soups, and chutneys.
Care Tips:
- Position: Plant in a sunny spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sun daily. Tomatoes are frost-sensitive, so wait until all risk of frost has passed before planting outdoors.
- Soil: They are ‘heavy feeders’ and thrive in rich, well-draining soil. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost and aged manure. A handful of lime or dolomite can also help prevent blossom end rot.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently at the base of the plant. Avoid wetting the foliage, as this can encourage fungal diseases. Irregular watering can lead to problems like fruit splitting or blossom end rot.
- Pruning & Support: Climbing varieties (indeterminate) need strong stakes or cages. As the plant grows, tie the main stem to the support. Regularly remove the lower leaves as the plant matures to improve air circulation and prevent soil-borne diseases.
- Pests & Diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, caterpillars, and fruit fly. Common diseases include blights and wilts, often caused by poor air circulation or overwatering. Practising crop rotation (not planting tomatoes or other related plants like potatoes and capsicums in the same spot each year) can also help prevent soil-borne diseases.
