What To Know
- Water the tray gently and cover it with a clear plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment.
- Drive stakes into the ground next to each plant and tie the stems to the stakes with twine or plant ties.
- Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The Celebrity tomato is a beloved variety for good reason. Its sweet, juicy flavor, high yield, and disease resistance make it a favorite among home gardeners. If you’re wondering how to grow celebrity tomato, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right seed to harvesting plump, red beauties.
Getting Started: Choosing the Right Seeds and Location
The journey to growing delicious Celebrity tomatoes begins with selecting the right seeds. You can find Celebrity tomato seeds at most garden centers or online retailers. Look for reputable brands and choose seeds that are fresh and have a good germination rate.
Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Tomatoes
Celebrity tomatoes thrive in full sun, so choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A well-drained soil is essential for healthy growth. If your soil is heavy or poorly drained, consider amending it with compost or other organic matter to improve its texture and drainage.
Planting Your Celebrity Tomato Seeds
Starting Seeds Indoors
Starting your Celebrity tomato seeds indoors gives them a head start and allows you to control their environment.
1. Fill Seed Trays: Fill seed trays with a seed-starting mix and gently moisten it.
2. Sow the Seeds: Sow one or two seeds per cell, pressing them lightly into the soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
3. Water and Cover: Water the tray gently and cover it with a clear plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment.
4. Light and Temperature: Place the trays in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Maintain a temperature of around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Thinning: Once seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them to the strongest seedling per cell.
Direct Sowing
If you live in a warm climate, you can directly sow Celebrity tomato seeds outdoors after the last frost.
1. Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 12 inches and amend it with compost or fertilizer.
2. Spacing: Space seeds 18-24 inches apart.
3. Planting Depth: Sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep.
4. Watering: Water the seeds thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist.
Nurturing Your Celebrity Tomato Plants
Transplanting Your Seedlings
When your Celebrity tomato seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and the weather has warmed, it’s time to transplant them outdoors.
1. Harden Off: Gradually acclimate your seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for increasing periods of time over a week or two.
2. Dig Holes: Dig holes large enough to accommodate the roots of your seedlings.
3. Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart.
4. Planting Depth: Plant the seedlings at the same depth they were growing in the seed trays.
5. Water Thoroughly: Water your newly transplanted seedlings deeply.
Watering and Fertilizing
Celebrity tomatoes require consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Fertilize your plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also use organic fertilizers like compost tea or fish emulsion.
Supporting Your Growing Tomatoes
Caging or Staking
As your Celebrity tomato plants grow taller, they will need support to prevent them from becoming leggy or falling over.
- Caging: Use tomato cages to support the plants. Choose cages that are tall enough to accommodate the plant’s full height.
- Staking: Drive stakes into the ground next to each plant and tie the stems to the stakes with twine or plant ties.
Pruning
Pruning your Celebrity tomato plants helps to improve air circulation, reduce disease, and encourage more fruit production.
- Suckers: Remove suckers, which are small shoots that grow from the leaf axils.
- Side Shoots: Prune side shoots to encourage the plant to grow taller and produce more fruit.
Harvesting Your Delicious Celebrity Tomatoes
Signs of Ripeness
Celebrity tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are firm and have a deep red color.
Harvesting Tips
- Pick Tomatoes: Pick tomatoes with a gentle twist or cut them with a sharp knife.
- Store Properly: Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The End of the Harvest: A Time for Reflection
Your journey to growing Celebrity tomatoes is a testament to your dedication and patience. As the season winds down, take a moment to appreciate the fruits of your labor. Reflect on what you learned, celebrate your successes, and plan for an even more bountiful harvest next year.
What You Need to Learn
Q: How long does it take for Celebrity tomatoes to ripen?
A: Celebrity tomatoes typically ripen in 70-80 days from transplanting.
Q: Can I grow Celebrity tomatoes in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow Celebrity tomatoes in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
Q: What are some common problems with growing Celebrity tomatoes?
A: Common problems include blossom end rot, tomato hornworms, and fungal diseases.
Q: Can I save seeds from my Celebrity tomatoes to plant next year?
A: Yes, you can save seeds from your Celebrity tomatoes. Choose the best-looking fruits and let them fully ripen on the vine. Remove the seeds and dry them thoroughly before storing them in a cool, dry place.
