Growing plants in pots
Planting in containers requires extra care. All of the general tips & techniques still applies, but here are additional tips for growing tomato plants in containers.
Size Matters
A full-size plant can grow 6’ tall or more. Which means it will have a large root ball. Your pot should be at least 18” in diameter and 18” deep. Bigger is better than smaller.
A dwarf plant can handle a 12” wide container.
A tabletop should thrive in a pot only 7” in diameter
Rock Out
When a tomato plant gets big and bulging with dozens of luscious hanging fruit, it will get top heavy. Very top heavy. In the Spring, before putting the soil in the pot, line the bottom 3” to 5” with gravel or large rocks. That will prevent it from tipping over late in the season and damaging the delicate tomatoes.
Moisture Control
The soil around your tomato plant should stay evenly moist. Don’t let it dry out. If it hasn’t rained, give it a frequent 10-15 minute soaking. If it’s been very dry and very hot (multiple days in the 90°s), do it more often. We also use Miracle Gro Moisture Control potting mix in ours pots. It really helps regulate the soil moisture. Mix this with mushroom compost. (80/20 mix)
