7 common mistakes tomato farmers make

Healthy tomatoes close up. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Failure to harden tomato seedlings

Hardening enables plant seedlings to adapt to changes in temperature or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Hardening can be done gradually increasing the seedlings exposure to natural weather four weeks before transplanting. If you overlook this stage, the shock of transplantation may stunt or even kill your tomato plants.

Planting tomatoes in wrong places

Although there are plenty of places where you can grow tomatoes, not all are ideal. Consider aspects of climate and soil conditions. Think about sunlight as you pick a spot. Make sure your tomatoes are not in a particularly exposed location or they may be damaged by strong winds. If you are growing in containers, choose containers large enough to accommodate your plants. Make sure, wherever you grow tomatoes, their needs are met. Don't plant them too close to other plants, or to each other. And don't put them far away from the things you will need when tending them. Water and compost/ fertiliser bins should be as close by as possible.