Why burying your tomato stems deeper is the secret to a stronger harvest
In short: Tomatoes are the quintessential summer garden ritual, offering high yields for those who master their specific needs. Whether you prefer the large, classic Grosse Lisse or the sweet, snackable Tommy Toe, understanding the difference between vine-climbing indeterminate varieties and compact bush types is the first step to a successful season.
To maximize your harvest, start by selecting the right variety for your space. Indeterminate tomatoes, such as the large Grosse Lisse or the cherry-sized Tommy Toe, grow on long, vigorous vines that require sturdy frames for support. In contrast, determinate varieties grow as compact bushes, making them ideal for pots since their fruit ripens simultaneously. Regardless of the type, these plants demand at least six hours of full sun daily and thrive when spaced about a metre apart to ensure proper airflow and light penetration, which helps prevent pest and disease issues.
Soil preparation is crucial; work compost and organic fertilizer into your garden bed before planting. A unique trick for tomatoes is to bury them deeper than other seedlings. By pinching off the lower leaves and submerging part of the stem, you encourage the plant to develop additional roots along the buried section, resulting in a much stronger foundation. Once established, use natural twine to tie stems loosely to your frame, allowing space for the stems to thicken as they grow. Mulching is essential to keep the root zone cool during the heat of summer.
Consistency is the key to productivity. Tomatoes require regular watering and a liquid feeding schedule every two to three weeks. To boost fruit quality and quantity, apply a monthly side dressing of potash. Crucially, practice crop rotation by waiting at least two seasons before planting tomatoes or their relatives—such as potatoes, chillies, capsicums, and eggplants—in the same spot, as they share common diseases. While plants in mild climates might survive the winter, they rarely match the productivity of a fresh start, so it is best to pull them out after the harvest and replant in the spring.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Tomato growing tips and testing your tomato knowledge | Gardening 101 | Gardening Australia
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