🌱 How to Grow Tomato from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: टमाटर

• Tamil: தக்காளி

• Telugu: టమోటా

• Malayalam: തക്കാളി

• Kannada: ಟೊಮೇಟೊ

• English: Tomato

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum

1. Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season vegetable

• Best sowing time:

  • Spring-Summer: Jan–Mar

  • Monsoon: Jun–Jul

• Ideal temperature: 20°C to 30°C

• Avoid extreme cold and frost

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Loose, well-drained, and rich in organic matter

• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Mix compost, cow dung manure, and neem cake powder before planting

3. Sow the Seeds

• Depth: Sow seeds about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep

• Spacing:

  • In garden beds: 18–24 inches between plants

  • In pots: Use 10–12 inch deep containers, sow 2–3 seeds, and thin to 1–2 healthy seedlings

• Cover lightly with soil and water gently

4. Watering

• Keep soil moist but not soggy

• Water when the top inch of soil is dry

• Water at the base to avoid fungal issues

5. Germination

• Seeds germinate in 5–10 days

• Transplant seedlings when they are 4–6 inches tall

• Handle gently to avoid root damage

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily

• Thrives in temperatures 20°C to 30°C

• Ensure good air circulation for healthy growth

7. Fertilization

• Start feeding after 3–4 weeks with:

  • Organic compost or vermicompost

  • During flowering: Use low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus-potassium fertilizers

  • Use banana peel or seaweed liquid fertilizer

8. Pest Control

• Common pests: Aphids, whiteflies, hornworms

• Spray neem oil + soap solution every 10–15 days

• Remove affected leaves and keep the area clean

9. Harvesting

• Fruits ready in 60–80 days from sowing

• Harvest when tomatoes are fully red and slightly soft

• Use scissors or gently twist to avoid damaging the plant

10. Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from fully ripe, healthy tomatoes

• Wash, dry completely, and store in a paper envelope for next season

• Tomato plants may continue producing for 2–3 months under good care

🍅 Health Benefits of Tomatoes

• Rich in Lycopene, an antioxidant good for heart and skin

• High in Vitamin C, A, potassium

• Supports immunity and vision

• Good for hydration and digestive health