About Sweet 100 Tomatoes
- Type: Indeterminate (vining) variety.
- Size: Small, cherry-sized fruits in clusters.
- Flavor: Exceptionally sweet.
- Growth: Vigorous and requires support.
Step-by-Step Growing Guide
1. Sowing
- When: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
- How:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep in seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix.
- Maintain a temperature of 70–75°F (21–24°C) for optimal germination.
- Use a grow light or place the seeds in a sunny window for 12–16 hours daily.
- Transplanting: Once seedlings have 2–3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or prepare them for outdoor planting.
2. Planting
- Timing: After the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (16°C).
- Spacing: Plant 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) apart, with rows spaced about 3 feet (1 meter) apart.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot that gets at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: Use well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
3. Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Water deeply 2–3 times per week, depending on the weather, ensuring the roots receive adequate moisture.
- Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
4. Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or one specifically formulated for tomatoes at planting.
- Feed every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.
- Once flowers appear, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage fruiting.
5. Support
- Use cages, stakes, or a trellis to support the vigorous vines of Sweet 100.
- Regularly tie the stems to the support structure as the plant grows.
6. Greenhouse Cultivation
- Advantages: Offers a controlled environment, extends the growing season, and reduces exposure to pests and diseases.
- Tips:
- Ventilate the greenhouse regularly to prevent overheating.
- Monitor humidity to reduce the risk of fungal issues.
- Prune regularly to maintain airflow around the plant.
7. Outdoor Cultivation
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Protect young plants with cloches or row covers if there’s a risk of unexpected frost.
8. Pruning
- Remove suckers (small shoots growing in the leaf axils) to focus the plant’s energy on fruit production.
- Prune excess foliage to improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease.
9. Harvesting
- Sweet 100 tomatoes are ready to harvest about 60–70 days after transplanting.
- Harvest when fruits are fully red and slightly firm.
- Regular harvesting encourages more fruit production.
Common Problems
- Cracking: Avoid inconsistent watering to prevent fruits from cracking.
- Pests: Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Use organic insecticides or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
- Diseases: Ensure good airflow and avoid wetting the leaves to reduce the risk of blight and other fungal diseases.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy tomatoes from your Sweet 100 plants.
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