How To Grow Tomatoes Inside
In recent years, there has been increased ability for people to start growing tomatoes indoors. Doing this can be financially and personally rewarding. Tomatoes that are grown in a personal, organic environment are much different from those that can be purchased at a local grocery store. It’s important for those who are growing indoors to choose a crack-resistant variety of tomato.
Tomatoes grow well in well-lit areas. The crack-resistant varieties produce tomatoes that are better for pastes. It’s important to start with a solid soil mixture that will provide seeds with health and strength. Individuals should choose soil mixtures that contain about 10% worm casting. These mixes also usually contain ingredients like hydrated lime, peat, and many others.
Individuals should begin with an average nursery tray that is filled with healthy soil mix. The seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch into the soil and should be placed with about 8 seeds per every inch. The seeds should be covered until proper growth has begun, as this will prevent them from drying. Seeds take about 5-12 days at about 80 degrees to pop out of the soil. Once this occurs, the cover should be removed.
Lighting should be kept over the tomato sprouts for about 18-24 hours per day. Once the tomatoes reach a height of 1 1/2 inches, they can be moved into larger containers. They should consistently remain under fluorescent lighting and kept at about 70-75 degrees consistently. Most tomato plants require about 2 or 3 fluorescent lights on them at all times. At night, it is possible to reduce the temperature to about 65 degrees, though it’s important that the plants do not become too hot or cold.
Once the tomatoes have reached about 12 inches, they should again be moved into larger, one gallon containers. After about 6-8 weeks, the plant will usually begin to fruit. Growing tomatoes inside can be difficult, as the plants need to be carefully flowered. Once the tomatoes have begun flowering, perhaps by force, it takes an additional 2-3 months for the plants to completely flower.
Another difficulty in learning how to grow tomatoes inside is achieving proper pollination. Once the flowers have fully developed and are beginning to open up, they should be carefully pollinated every day. It’s important that this is done when it is humid and warm. Once this has been done, it will take about 2-3 months for the tomatoes to reach full size.
