Shhhh... don't tell the other vegetables, but tomatoes might just be our ultimate favorite at the farm! We love them for their versatility in the kitchen and the joy of growing them fresh at home. However, achieving a bountiful tomato yield requires more than just planting seeds and hoping for the best. Here are five tips from a Blue Goose farmer to help ensure your tomato plants thrive and produce a generous harvest.

1. Choose the Right Variety

Selecting the right tomato variety for you is crucial. Depending on your climate and growing conditions, some tomatoes will perform better than others. Consider what you, the eater, look for in a tomato and how you use it most in your kitchen. We say this because alothough a Hierloom may take our top place for it's flavor, an F1 hybrid variety may yield more, specifically in our Zone B region. If you refuse to compromise on flavor, perhaps less is more for you. When container gardening, you may be wishing to do a lot more with less space and for this reason you may pick a Celebrity variety that pumps. It is always nice to have your efforts serve you!

2. Pick a Strong Seedling

Start off on the right foot by looking for strong seedlings with vibrant green leaves. Healthy foliage is a sign that the plant has been well-nourished and is likely to continue growing well once transplanted. The stem of the seedling should be sturdy and thick, not thin or leggy as though it was reaching for sun. Opt for medium-sized seedlings over the largest ones. While it may be tempting to choose the biggest plants, smaller, more compact seedlings often transplant better and can quickly catch up in size once established. Don't forget to look at the roots! A white root system that isn't mushy or balled will have the best success.

3. Support Your Plants

Like us farmers, Tomato plants need support as they grow. Use stakes, cages, or trellises to keep the plants upright and the fruit off the ground. This not only helps in preventing diseases but also promotes better air circulation. Give lots of attention throughout the growing period by pinching off the small shoots that grow between the main stem and a branch called suckers. A bit of pruning to help the plant direct the energy to the right places will also help encourage the fruit.

4. Feed Your Plants

Tomatoes are heavy feeders, and providing them with the right water and nutrients is essential for a healthy yield. Start with rich, organic matter in your soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure to encourage strong root development. As the plants grow, make sure they are getting an abundant amount of sunlight which will help the photosynthesis towards abundant fruiting. Water deeply rather than frequently ensuring the roots are getting enough moisture. Like us, these snacks will keep your plants from getting hangry!

5. Supliment Your Efforts

Didn't get what you hoped for out of the planting season? Don't be so hard on yourself if the garden doesn't reflect your intentions. Sometimes it can be nice to learn from experience what to do better the following year. In this case Blue Goose Farm Shop or your local small producer can provide you with not only some great produce when you need it but also some locally specific advice. It's also nice to try new varieties and taste what is possible to grow in a shared climate.

We hope with these considerations in mind, you’ll give your plants the best possible start and increase your chances of a successful and abundant harvest! Let it Gow, Yield Greatly!