What To Know
- This vertical training technique allows you to grow a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes in a compact footprint.
- This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow cordon type tomatoes, from choosing the right variety to harvesting your juicy rewards.
- Water your tomatoes in the morning to allow the soil to dry out during the day.
The cordon method of growing tomatoes is a popular choice for gardeners looking to maximize space and yield. This vertical training technique allows you to grow a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes in a compact footprint. But how do you achieve this vertical victory? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow cordon type tomatoes, from choosing the right variety to harvesting your juicy rewards.
Choosing the Right Cordon Tomato Variety
The first step to success is selecting the right tomato variety. Not all tomatoes are created equal, and some are better suited for cordon training than others. Look for varieties that are specifically labeled as “cordon” or “indeterminate.” These tomatoes will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season, making them ideal for vertical training.
Here are some popular cordon tomato varieties to get you started:
- Sungold: A sweet and flavorful cherry tomato known for its prolific yield.
- Gardener’s Delight: A classic choice with a sweet, juicy flavor, producing an abundance of red tomatoes.
- Moneymaker: A reliable and heavy-producing variety with a classic tomato flavor.
- Ailsa Craig: A large, beefsteak tomato with a rich, complex flavor.
Preparing Your Cordon Tomato Plants
Once you’ve chosen your cordon tomato variety, it’s time to prepare your plants. You can start your tomato seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Alternatively, you can purchase young tomato plants from a local nursery.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Potting Mix: Use a high-quality potting mix that provides good drainage and aeration.
- Seedling Tray: Start your seeds in a seedling tray or individual pots.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Sunlight: Place the seedlings in a sunny location, ideally with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardening Off: Once the seedlings have developed true leaves, begin hardening them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few hours each day.
Setting up Your Cordon Tomato Support System
A sturdy support system is crucial for growing cordon tomatoes. Here’s how to set up your vertical tomato garden:
- Cages: Tomato cages are a simple and effective option for supporting cordon tomatoes. Choose cages that are at least 6 feet tall and have a wide base for stability.
- Trellises: Trellises offer a more elegant and space-saving solution. You can use a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or bamboo.
- Stakes: For a minimalist approach, you can use sturdy stakes to support your tomato plants.
Important Tip: Place your support system in the ground before planting your tomato seedlings. This will prevent damage to the roots.
Planting Your Cordon Tomatoes
Once your tomato plants are ready, it’s time to plant them in your prepared garden bed or containers.
Here’s how:
- Spacing: Space your cordon tomato plants 18-24 inches apart.
- Depth: Plant the seedlings deep enough so that the first set of true leaves is just above the soil level.
- Watering: Water your tomato plants thoroughly after planting.
Training Your Cordon Tomato Plants
The key to growing successful cordon tomatoes is proper training. This involves guiding the main stem of the plant vertically up the support system.
Here’s how to train your tomato plants:
- Remove Side Shoots: Regularly remove any side shoots (also known as suckers) that grow from the main stem. These side shoots compete with the main stem for nutrients and energy.
- Tie the Main Stem: As the main stem grows, tie it to the support system using soft twine or garden clips. This will help to keep the plant upright and prevent it from becoming tangled.
- Prune the Top: Once the main stem reaches the top of your support system, pinch off the growing tip. This will encourage the plant to focus its energy on producing fruit.
Watering and Feeding Your Cordon Tomatoes
Water your cordon tomato plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Here are some tips for watering:
- Morning Water: Water your tomatoes in the morning to allow the soil to dry out during the day.
- Deep Watering: Water deeply to encourage healthy root development.
- Mulch: Use mulch around the base of your tomato plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing: Cordon tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization.
Here are some tips for fertilizing:
- Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or a tomato-specific fertilizer.
- Frequency: Fertilize your tomato plants every 2-4 weeks.
- Follow Label Instructions: Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
Harvesting Your Cordon Tomatoes
Once your cordon tomato plants are laden with ripe fruit, it’s time to harvest your delicious bounty!
Here are some tips for harvesting:
- Color: Pick your tomatoes when they are fully ripe. The color will depend on the variety, but most tomatoes will turn red, yellow, or orange.
- Firmness: The tomatoes should be firm to the touch.
- Stem: Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the tomatoes from the vine. Leave a small portion of the stem attached to the tomato.
Enjoying Your Cordon Tomato Harvest
Now that you’ve successfully grown your own cordon tomatoes, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here are some ideas for using your fresh tomato harvest:
- Salads: Slice your tomatoes and add them to salads for a burst of flavor.
- Sandwiches: Use your tomatoes to make delicious sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
- Sauces: Make homemade tomato sauce, salsa, or ketchup.
- Roasted Tomatoes: Roast your tomatoes with herbs and spices for a flavorful side dish or topping.
A Farewell to the Season: Taking Care of Your Cordon Tomato Plants After Harvest
After harvesting your tomato crop, it’s important to take care of your cordon tomato plants.
Here are some tips for caring for your plants after harvest:
- Clean Up: Remove any remaining fruit and foliage from your tomato plants.
- Prune: Prune your tomato plants back to about 12 inches tall.
- Compost: Add the pruned stems and leaves to your compost bin.
- Prepare for Next Year: If you’re growing your tomato plants in containers, you can either discard the plants or overwinter them indoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grow cordon tomatoes in containers?
A: Absolutely! Cordon tomatoes are perfect for container gardening. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
Q: How often should I water my cordon tomatoes?
A: Water your cordon tomatoes regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Q: What should I do if my tomato plants are not producing fruit?
A: There are several reasons why your tomato plants might not be producing fruit. Make sure you are providing adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Check for pests and diseases. If you’re still having problems, consult with a local gardening expert.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect cordon tomatoes?
A: Some common pests that affect cordon tomatoes include aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Common diseases include blight, wilt, and mosaic virus.
Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases?
A: You can help prevent pests and diseases by practicing good sanitation, providing adequate air circulation, and using organic pest control methods.
**With a little effort and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious cordon tomatoes. So, get started today and experience the vertical victory of growing your own tomatoes!
