How and when to start picking tomatoes?

Picking of tomato seedlings is carried out to cull weak and diseased seedlings and leave strong and strong sprouts. Diving of tomatoes ensures normal growth of seedlings and conditions for the normal formation of roots and the above-ground part of the plant. When the plant just begins to sprout, it has a very small root system, which requires very little space, but as the plant grows, it is necessary to increase the planting location, which provides optimal growth conditions.

Picking tomatoes should be done as soon as the first leaves appear, i.e. 10-15 days after germination. However, in each case it is necessary to look individually, since some seedlings require replanting already on the 7-10th day. Tomatoes are transplanted into square pots measuring 100-150 ml, in which they can comfortably grow for another 15 days. It is not recommended to transplant plants directly into large pots, as in this case a fungus may develop in the soil or the soil may “sour.” With the development and growth of seedlings and an increase in the root system, such problems disappear.

Before picking, it is best to water the plant 1-2 times a day, since watering on the day of seedlings makes the soil heavier, which can damage the tomato stem itself. Each tomato to be picked must have an earthen lump, which is carefully removed from the common container using a toothpick so as not to damage its root system, and is separated from the general earthen lump. At the same time, you cannot touch the green part of the plant with your hands.It is best to use rag gloves or a teaspoon.

When transplanting tomatoes, you need to deepen the roots of the plant right up to the cotyledon leaves, because in this case there will be more roots in the ground. But it is not recommended to deepen the roots too much, as this inhibits the growth of the plant. A hole is made in the ground using a finger or other available tools, and then the tomato root is transferred there. The soil around the plant is compacted and watered with cold water.

In the first 2-3 days, the lighting of tomatoes is reduced, and then the lighting should be maximum. If possible, tomatoes should be given access to direct sunlight for 30-60 minutes a day, and then this time should be gradually increased. Watering the plant should be done as needed, because tomatoes love good but infrequent watering. Tomato seedlings require dry, hot air, a dry soil surface and moisture at depth. Tomatoes are fertilized with a fertilizer solution once every 2 weeks.

Seedlings should not be allowed to bloom in pots. This means that the first, most delicious and richest harvest is lost. The most ideal time for transplanting into the ground is when buds are about to form on the tomato. After transplantation, the process will slow down somewhat, but then flowering and fruit formation will occur under conditions of normal, abundant and nutritious nutrition.

So, the answer to the question: How and when to start picking tomatoes? will help you grow a good tasty tomato. Have a good harvest.