Tomato Schedule for 2012

Tomatoes are a year long project to get a good crop and yield.  The following is a timeline I use to grow tomatoes.

January-Procure tomato seeds.  I get mine from www.tomatofest.com.  There are also many good catalogs out there.  I like to get several varieties including different sizes, colors and short and long season varieties.

February/March-Sow seeds in accordance with the lunar cycle.  I will purchase potting soil and sow them in jiffy pots.  The jiffy pots may be planted directly into the ground.  I will have several fluorescent lights set up wateringthem about every other day and letting the light shine for about 18 hours a day.

April-Move plants outside for several hours each day.  Progressively let them stay outside longer and longer as it becomes warmer.

May-Plant in permanent home after last frost.  Soil should be tilled prior to planting and I like to give it a boost with a fish emulsion.  Place newspapers topped with hay all around the plants for weed control and mulching purposes. 

June-Set up trellising system.  Use bamboo sticks set up like a tipi.  Trim and train the tomato vines as needed to the bamboo sticks with twine.

August/September-Harvest and enjoy—should have production until temperature drops consistantly below 55 degrees F.

October-Purchase bales of hay for next season.