How to Grow Tomatoes On Your Deck

You will learn how to grow tomatoes without a garden by using containers.

Things You'll Need

• 3 five gallon containers
• 3 patio tomato seedlings
• 3 tomato cages
• Peat Moss
• Perlite
• Compost (Mushroom)
• Plant Food

Instructions

1. Mix even parts of Peat Moss, Vermiculite and Mushroom Compost until well blended. This can be done by spreading the mixture on a tarp then using a rake to incorporate. Add the mixture to each container until three-fourths full. Set aside remaining mixture.

2. Gently remove patio seedlings from their packaging by tilting them slightly on their side and pushing up from the bottom. Do not tug on the stem as you may break the seedling.

3. Place one patio seedling in the middle of each container and add the additional soil mixture around the base of each seedling until only approximately 4 to 6 inches of the plant is exposed. This will allow for proper root growth.

4. Place your containers in an area of your deck that will get at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day and add the tomato cages while the plants are still small to prevent limb breakage due to heavy yields.

5. Water your plants daily and once per week add liquid plant food according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once your tomatoes turn red and are ripe, gently pluck from the vine, taking care not to break any of the limbs. By following these instructions you will have abundant yields without taking up significant amounts time or space.

Tips & Warnings

• Blossom end rot is a common problem most often caused by inconsistent watering. To prevent your tomatoes from being ruined by this condition, make sure water daily and avoid periods of drought.