How to Grow Cherry Tomatoes From Seeds

Growing cherry tomatoes from seeds in pots is a great way to enjoy fresh, flavorful tomatoes all season long, without needing a large garden space. With just a few simple steps, you can successfully grow your own cherry tomatoes from seed and enjoy a bountiful harvest.  Let's jump in an see how to grow cherry tomatoes from seeds and just how easy it is!

Here are the steps to follow for growing cherry tomatoes from seeds in pots:

Step 1: Choose the right pot and soil

When growing cherry tomatoes in pots, it's important to choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and has a diameter of 12-18 inches. This will provide enough space for the roots to grow and for the plant to produce a bountiful harvest. Choose a pot with good drainage holes, as well, to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

Next, choose a well-draining potting soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid using garden soil, as it can contain pests and diseases that can harm your plants. You can purchase a pre-made potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and compost.

Step 2: Sow the seeds

Once you have your pot and soil ready, it's time to sow the cherry tomato seeds. Fill the pot with potting soil, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top. Then, make small holes in the soil with your finger, about 1/4 inch deep. Drop one or two seeds in each hole and cover them with soil. Space the seeds about 2 inches apart.

Gently wet the soil with water, being careful not to wash the seeds away. In order to produce a little greenhouse effect that may hasten the germination of the seeds, you can cover the pot with plastic wrap or a plastic dome. Put the pot somewhere warm and sunny, like a windowsill or a greenhouse.

Step 3: Take care of the young plants

The cherry tomato seeds ought to begin to sprout in approximately 5–10 days. When they do, take off the dome or plastic wrap and set the pot in a bright area. For the seedlings to grow robust and healthily, they will require at least 6 to 8 hours per day of direct sunlight.

Maintain wet but not soggy soil. Once a week, or whenever the top inch of soil seems dry, give the plants a thorough watering. Since water might cause fungus problems, avoid getting it on the leaves.

To prevent them from toppling over as they mature, the seedlings will require support. To support the plants, you can use trellises, tomato cages, or bamboo posts. When the seedlings are approximately 6 inches long, put the support in the pot, and as they grow, tie the stems to the support.

Step 4: Plant the young plants.

It's time to transplant the seedlings into their individual pots after they are 3 to 4 inches tall and have sprouted their first true leaves. Choose a container with a diameter of between 12 and 18 inches, at least 12 inches deep, and fill it with potting soil. Without damaging the roots, carefully remove the seedlings from the original pot. Plant the seedlings in the new container, covering them with soil until they have their first set of leaves. The plants will be encouraged to grow a robust root system as a result.

After transplanting, give the seedlings plenty of water, and set them somewhere sunny. Maintain a wet but not soggy soil, and keep providing support for the plants as they expand.

Step 5: Feed the plants fertilizer

For a plentiful harvest, cherry tomato plants require regular fertilization because they are heavy feeders. You have two options for fertilizer: either a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, or a fertilizer made for that purpose.

Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for application rates and frequency.

It's also a good idea to add some organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil to help improve soil fertility and provide essential nutrients to the plants.

Step 6: Harvest the tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes usually start to ripen about 60-70 days after transplanting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. You'll know the tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are firm, brightly colored, and have a slight give when squeezed gently.

To harvest the tomatoes, simply grasp the stem and twist gently. The tomatoes should come off the plant easily. If the stem doesn't come off easily, use a pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut it.

Harvest your cherry tomatoes regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruit. If you have more tomatoes than you can use, you can freeze them or can them for later use.

Tips for Growing Cherry Tomatoes from Seeds in Pots

• Choose a sunny spot for your cherry tomato plants. They need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow strong and healthy.
• Water your plants deeply once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
• Use a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically designed for tomatoes to provide essential nutrients to your plants.
• Support your plants with stakes, cages, or trellises to keep them from falling over as they grow.
• Harvest your cherry tomatoes regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruit.

In conclusion, growing cherry tomatoes from seeds in pots is a fun and rewarding activity that anyone can do, regardless of their gardening experience. With just a little bit of planning and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, flavorful cherry tomatoes all season long. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

We have lots of tomato seeds for sale and cherry tomato seeds to help you along on your gardening journey!