10 Easy Steps to Grow Over 50 Pounds of Tomatoes Per Plant
A bumper tomato crop is every gardener’s dream, and growing over 50 pounds of tomatoes per plant is entirely possible with the right strategies.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 simple steps to help you maximize your tomato yield.
From choosing the right varieties to giving them the best care, these tips will lead to a thriving, productive tomato garden.
Choose the Right Tomato Variety
With over 700 varieties of tomatoes available, choosing the right one is key to maximizing your yield. Each type brings its own distinct size, flavor, and color.
It’s essential to consider your local climate, as some varieties thrive better in specific conditions. Opting for a type that matches your region’s temperature and growing season can significantly boost productivity.
Additionally, look for disease resistance and required growing space, particularly if you have a small garden or patio. For instance, "Little Bites" tomatoes are ideal for small spaces while still producing a bountiful harvest.
Plant Tomatoes Sideways
Traditional methods suggest planting tomatoes vertically, but planting them sideways can help increase the yield. By burying a portion of the stem horizontally in the soil, you encourage the plant to grow more roots.
This technique allows the plant to access more nutrients and water, promoting faster growth. Plus, since tomatoes thrive in warm soil, the proximity to the surface helps speed up fruit production, ensuring a larger and quicker harvest.
Use a Trench Planting Method
Shallow trench planting is another effective technique when growing tomatoes. A trench no more than 6 inches deep allows seedlings to grow horizontally, giving their roots room to spread.
This method is particularly useful in rocky or compacted soil where digging deep isn’t feasible. Trench planting also helps the roots access warmth near the surface, which supports healthy growth.
Transplanting on a cloudy day reduces stress on the plants, allowing them to settle more easily.
Add Slow-Release Fertilizer
Using slow-release fertilizer is an excellent way to nourish your tomato plants for the long term. Tomatoes generally adapt to various soil types, as long as the pH level stays between 5.8 and 7.0. A slow-release fertilizer supplies nutrients gradually over time, providing the plants with consistent nourishment.
This method is low-maintenance and can last for up to two months, ensuring your plants stay strong and productive with minimal effort.
Build Cages for Each Plant
Tomato cages are a must for supporting the growth of your plants. As tomatoes grow tall and heavy with fruit, cages prevent the vines from collapsing under the weight.
They also keep the tomatoes off the ground, reducing the risk of rot and pests. Whether you’re growing large or small tomato varieties, cages make it easier to manage the plants and harvest the fruit.
For added protection from frost or extreme weather, consider covering the cages with fabric or plastic.
Plan Your Harvest Timing
Timing your harvest properly can prevent wildlife from enjoying your tomatoes before you do. Birds and critters are drawn to fully ripened fruit, but they tend to avoid tomatoes that are just beginning to turn pink or red.
Harvesting your tomatoes when they start showing color allows you to beat the animals to the fruit, ensuring you get the most from each plant. Plus, early harvesting prevents over-ripening on the vine, which can attract more pests.
Shield Cages from Wind
Wind can be detrimental to tomato plants, especially when they’re young and vulnerable. High winds can easily snap delicate seedlings.
To prevent damage, set up wind protection around your tomato cages during stormy weather. A simple windbreak can be made using a bucket with the top cut out, which shields the plants while allowing sunlight and rain to reach them.
You can also use floating row covers to offer wind protection without compromising airflow.
Add Ammonium Sulfate
When green tomatoes start to appear on your plants, it's time to include ammonium sulfate in your feeding routine. This addition helps strengthen the plants and supports the production of large, healthy tomatoes.
Simply sprinkle one or two tablespoons of ammonium sulfate around the base of each plant. Repeat the process after three weeks, and again after another three weeks, to ensure consistent growth and fruiting.
Avoid Refrigerating Tomatoes
Let tomatoes ripen fully at room temperature rather than refrigerating them. The cold of the fridge can cause tomatoes to lose both their flavor and aroma.
Once your tomatoes have reached full ripeness on the counter, they’re ready to eat, offering the best possible taste. Keeping them at room temperature preserves the rich, sweet flavor that tomatoes are known for.
Fertilize Regularly
While slow-release fertilizer is a good start, adding water-soluble fertilizer on a weekly basis can further enhance tomato growth. Using a spray applicator attached to your garden hose, you can deliver nutrients directly to the leaves.
This quick, weekly task only takes about 10-15 minutes and can make a noticeable difference in the size and quantity of your tomato harvest. Regular feeding encourages continuous growth and higher yields throughout the season.
