Sowing Tomato Seeds: a. Fill your seedling trays or pots with a high-quality seed starting mix. Make small depressions in the mix using your finger or a pencil. b. Place 2-3 tomato seeds in each depression, then cover them with a thin layer of soil. c. Mist the soil gently with water to ensure it’s evenly moist but not waterlogged. d. Cover the trays or pots with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to create a greenhouse effect. This helps retain moisture and warmth.
Providing Adequate Light and Temperature: a. Tomato seedlings need ample sunlight or grow lights to thrive. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily or position your grow lights 2-4 inches above the seedlings. b. Maintain a consistent temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) to encourage germination and healthy growth.
Watering and Care: a. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Use a watering can or spray bottle to water the seedlings gently. b. Once the seedlings have their first true leaves (not just the initial cotyledons), thin them to one strong plant per pot or cell. c. Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks.
Transplanting: a. When your tomato seedlings have grown to about 6-8 inches tall and have a sturdy stem, they are ready for transplanting. b. Harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week. c. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil, and plant your tomato seedlings at least 2-3 feet apart.
