The backbone of the summer veggie patch — sprawling or staked, sweet or tart, there's a tomato for every garden. Sow from seed for the widest choice of varieties.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum is an fast-growing edible plant in the Solanaceae family. Yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Tomato
Tomato suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Tomato provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Tomato is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Tomato after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Tomato in the garden
Tomato earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Tomato with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Tomato
Plant Sale lists Tomato as seed and seedlings. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Tomato seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.