Tomatoes in Wootton Bridge

Sow seeds indoors in modules or small pots around 16th December - 31st December. 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 6th January - 13th January. Handle seedlings by the leaves to avoid stem damage and plant at the same depth as before.

Move plants into larger pots around 20th January - 27th January 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 13th February - 20th 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 20th February - 27th February 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 2nd 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 9th March. This supports flowering and fruit development. Water plants regularly to prevent blossom end rot.

Pick fruits as they ripen from 29th November until 9th May. Harvest regularly to encourage more production. If frost threatens, pick green tomatoes and ripen indoors on a windowsill.