Tomatoes in Aberchalder

Sow seeds indoors in modules or small pots around 2nd May - 17th May. Use a heated propagator or warm windowsill at 18–21 °C for germination. Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged.

Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, prick them out into individual pots around 23rd May - 30th May. Handle seedlings by the leaves to avoid stem damage and plant at the same depth as before.

Move plants into larger pots around 6th June - 13th June to prevent root restriction. Use a good quality potting compost and water well after repotting to settle the roots.

Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions over 10-14 days starting around 30th June - 7th July. Place them outside in a sheltered spot during the day and bring in at night, increasing exposure each day.

Plant tomatoes in their final position around 7th July - 14th July after frost risk has passed. Space plants 60 cm apart in fertile, well-drained soil. Water in well and consider using cloches or fleece for extra protection.

Provide stakes or cages for support from 17th July. For cordon varieties, remove side shoots regularly to direct energy into the main stem. Pinch out the main growing tip after 4-6 trusses have set to force ripening in the UK climate.

Apply a high-potassium liquid fertiliser every 14 days starting around 2nd July and continuing until 24th July. This supports flowering and fruit development. Water plants regularly to prevent blossom end rot.

Pick fruits as they ripen from 2nd July until 23rd September. Harvest regularly to encourage more production. If frost threatens, pick green tomatoes and ripen indoors on a windowsill.