Growing tomatoes in containers has become increasingly popular, especially for those people who would like to grow their own organic tomatoes but have limited space in which to do so. Here we provide an easy guide to growing tomatoes that is suitable for novice gardeners.

Step 1: Choosing your tomato: Sounds simple but sizes range from tiny little cherry tomatoes to outrageously large scale busting tomatoes, and choosing the right type of tomato will depend upon how much space you have for your container, cherry tomatoes will grow comfortably in hanging baskets whilst if you are pondering on whether or not to try growing big tomatoes a much larger container will be required. Another aspect of this decision making process that should be considered is whether to choose a determinate or indeterminate tomato. Determinate tomatoes are the better choice for containers as they only grow to a certain size then stop making the choice of container that much easier. Indeterminate tomatoes, which include all the largest varieties of tomatoes, will continue to grow and grow and can be difficult to contain.

Step 2: Seed or plant? Although there is always a feeling of immense satisfaction when growing from seed, where tomatoes are concerned, it is always best to opt for a plant that has been germinated and grown to a certain point by your local nursey or garden center.

Step 3: Which container? You can grow tomatoes in any type of container as long as it is big enough to contain the root system for the chosen variety and has ample drainage (holes in the bottom!).

Step 4: What soil mix? A 50:50 mix of growing peat and natural compost should do fine but check with the nursery you bought your plant from as some plants flourish better with different mixes.

Step 5: Planting: Remove the lowest leaves of your plant and when planting only leave the top quarter of the plant showing, this will provide a much better root system. It’s a good idea to insert a support stake at this stage to avoid damaging the roots later on when the plant requires it.

Step 6: What does my tomato plant need to grow? Plenty of sunshine, 6 to 8 hours a day is good, if this isn’t possible, use a grow light. Also a daily watering is required, about an inch a day, and once a week add a good liquid fertilizer to provide a burst of nutrients.

Step 7: Follow all of the above and within 50 to 80 days, depending on tomato variety, you’ll be harvesting a crop of juicy, tasty tomatoes!

Step 8: Eat and enjoy!