What To Know
- The best time to harvest these is towards the end of the summer when the tomatoes are at their peak ripeness.
- Using a spoon or your fingers, carefully scoop out the seeds and place them in a bowl.
- Cover the seed tray with a plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment.
The joy of fresh, homegrown cherry tomatoes is unmatched. But what if you could skip the seed packet and start your own plants directly from the fruit? It’s easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the process of how to grow cherry tomato from the fruit, from seed extraction to successful transplantation.
Step 1: Selecting the Right Fruit
Not all cherry tomatoes are created equal when it comes to seed viability. Choose ripe, plump cherry tomatoes that haven’t been damaged or overripe. The best time to harvest these is towards the end of the summer when the tomatoes are at their peak ripeness.
Step 2: Extracting the Seeds
Once you have your chosen fruit, it’s time to extract the seeds. Here’s how:
1. Cut the tomato open: Slice the cherry tomato in half, exposing the seeds and the surrounding jelly-like pulp.
2. Scoop out the seeds: Using a spoon or your fingers, carefully scoop out the seeds and place them in a bowl.
3. Clean the seeds: Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove any remaining pulp.
4. Dry the seeds: Spread the seeds on a paper towel and let them air dry for a few hours or overnight.
Step 3: Preparing the Seed Starting Mix
You can use a commercial seed starting mix or make your own. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade seed starting mix:
- 1 part peat moss
- 1 part vermiculite
- 1 part perlite
Mix the ingredients thoroughly and moisten the mix with water. You want the mix to be damp but not soggy.
Step 4: Sowing the Seeds
1. Fill seed trays or pots: Fill your seed trays or small pots with the prepared seed starting mix, leaving about half an inch of space from the top.
2. Sow the seeds: Gently press each seed about a quarter inch deep into the soil.
3. Water the seeds: Lightly mist the soil with water, ensuring the seeds are well-hydrated.
4. Cover the tray: Cover the seed tray with a plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment.
Step 5: Providing the Right Conditions
Cherry tomato seeds need warmth and light to germinate. Place your seed tray in a sunny location, ideally with temperatures around 70-75°F. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Step 6: Thinning and Transplanting
Once the seedlings have a few true leaves (the leaves that appear after the first pair), it’s time to thin them out. This ensures each seedling has enough space to grow.
When the seedlings are about 3-4 inches tall, they’re ready to be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Step 7: Caring for Your Cherry Tomato Plants
Once your seedlings are in their permanent location, continue to provide them with the following:
- Consistent watering: Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Fertilizer: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
- Staking or caging: Cherry tomato vines can become quite heavy, so support them with stakes or cages.
- Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them promptly.
Harvesting Your Homegrown Cherry Tomatoes
The wait is finally over! You’ll start to see small, green tomatoes forming on your vines. As the tomatoes ripen, they’ll turn from green to red. Harvest them when they are fully red and firm to the touch. Enjoy the sweet, juicy flavor of your homegrown cherry tomatoes!
From Seeds to Success: A Rewarding Journey
Growing cherry tomatoes from the fruit is a rewarding experience. It allows you to connect with the natural cycle of growth and enjoy the fruits of your labor. With a little patience and care, you’ll be able to savor the delicious taste of homegrown cherry tomatoes.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How long does it take for cherry tomato seeds to germinate?
A: Cherry tomato seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days, but it can vary depending on the temperature and moisture levels.
Q: Can I use cherry tomato seeds from store-bought tomatoes?
A: While it’s possible, store-bought tomatoes are often hybrids, meaning the seeds may not produce the same fruit as the parent plant.
Q: What are the best varieties of cherry tomatoes for growing from seed?
A: Some popular varieties include ‘Sweet 100,’ ‘Sun Gold,’ and ‘Red Robin.’
Q: How often should I water my cherry tomato plants?
A: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. The frequency will depend on the climate and soil conditions.
Q: Can I grow cherry tomatoes indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow cherry tomatoes indoors, but they’ll need plenty of sunlight and may require supplemental lighting during the winter months.
