Hydroponic Tomato Propagation

Tomatoes are well suited to hydroponic growing.

Tomatoes need relatively little space and can produce 10 lb. or more of fruit for each plant. When grown hydroponically, they can become even larger and more nutritious than when grown in soil.

Germination

Before planting your tomatoes in your hydroponic system, you must germinate the seeds in soil. Use small starter pots for germination, which can hold them for the two weeks it takes to become ready for transplanting.

Lighting

Keep the tomatoes under about 1,000 foot-candles for 18 hours a day. Use bluish light sources when the tomatoes are young, reddish light sources when they start flowering.

Environment

Keep temperatures below 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and below 70 degrees at night. Keep the humidity around 70 percent during the day and around 80 percent at night.

Handling Precautions

Do not use tobacco around hydroponic tomatoes. This exposes them to harmful diseases. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling hydroponic tomato plants while they are still growing.

References

• Easy Hydroponics: How to Grow Hydroponic Tomatoes
• University of Arizona: Growing Tomatoes Hydroponically - Propagation
• Ohio State University Extension: Growing Tomatoes in the Home Garden
• University of Arizona: Growing Tomatoes Hydroponically - Bacterial and Viral

Resources

• Weekend Gardener: Growing Tomatoes