tomato·Perry's Outdoor Plants
Solanum lycopersicum
tomato
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Species Name
Genus
Family
Adoption Date
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Collection
Gallery
Care Guide
Care Requirements
LightFull sun (at least 6-8 hours per day for best growth and fruiting).
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not soggy—deep, regular watering, especially during fruit set.
SoilWell-drained, fertile loam; pH 6.0–6.8.
FertilizerBalanced fertilizer or compost prior to planting, then additional feeding (high in potassium and phosphorus) as fruit sets.
HumidityModerate, with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases; avoid wetting foliage.
TemperatureOptimal 21°C–27°C (70°F–80°F); frost-sensitive.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitUpright, vining or bushy annual; some cultivars indeterminate (vining), others determinate (bushy).
Mature SizeVaries with cultivar; 1–3 m (3–10 ft) tall.
Growth RateFast-growing in warm conditions.
BloomingYellow star-shaped flowers, usually throughout the growing season.
DormancyNo true dormancy; grown as annual in most regions.
Propagation
MethodsSeeds, Cuttings
DifficultyEasy from seed
Best SeasonSpring, after frost danger has passed
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove side shoots (suckers) on vining varieties to improve airflow and fruit production.
RepottingOnly for container-grown plants if root-bound; usually started in trays and transplanted.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to blight, wilt, aphids, whiteflies, tomato hornworm.
ToxicityLeaves and unripe fruit are toxic if ingested (contain solanine).