Tomatoes in Bowcombe

Sow seeds indoors in modules or small pots around 22nd December - 6th January. 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 12th January - 19th January. Handle seedlings by the leaves to avoid stem damage and plant at the same depth as before.

Move plants into larger pots around 26th January - 2nd February 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 19th February - 26th February. 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 26th February - 5th March 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 8th March. 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 29th November and continuing until 15th March. This supports flowering and fruit development. Water plants regularly to prevent blossom end rot.

Pick fruits as they ripen from 29th November until 15th May. Harvest regularly to encourage more production. If frost threatens, pick green tomatoes and ripen indoors on a windowsill.