Growing From Seed

If you want to explore unique varieties of tomatoes, growing from seed is a great option! Auckland's warm climate allows for seed sowing from mid August, starting in seed trays.

Growing From Seedlings

For a quicker start, try tomato seedlings! Our Super Punnets have individual pockets which ensure their roots won’t get tangled, setting your tomatoes up for fast growth.

Growing From Established Plants

Need a headstart, or playing catch up? Available from mid September, mature plants establish quickly, producing a bountiful harvest to get you snacking on them sooner.

Growing from Grafted Tomatoes

Wanting double the tomatoes? Grafted tomatoes are a great option as they grow faster, are more resilient, and can produce up to twice as much fruit as standard varieties.

Position

Tomatoes need as much sun as possible! Find a warm sunny spot in your garden that gets at least 6-8 hours of sun a day, preferably somewhere sheltered from strong winds but with good airflow. Make sure to rotate your crop placement each year, avoiding areas where tomatoes, potatoes or eggplants grew the previous year to avoid soil-borne diseases.

Care

Watering

Tomatoes thrive with consistent watering and the right nutrients. If planted in the ground, water deeply every second day to encourage strong root development. For potted tomatoes, water daily until it drains from the bottom of the pot - but never let the pot sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

Feeding

Feeding is just as important. Once your tomato plant begins to flower, apply Kings Liquid Tomato Food every two weeks. This tomato specific fertiliser is rich in potassium (or potash), which promotes abundant flowering and fruit production. Supplement with Aquaticus Garden Booster once a month, this organic liquid fertiliser will help your plant develop stronger, healthier roots!

Pruning

To help your tomato plant focus its energy on producing fruit and flowers, regularly remove side shoots - also known as lateral branches. These small shoots appear in the junction between the main stem and existing branches and can divert valuable nutrients from fruit development. Harvest your tomatoes once they’ve fully ripened on the vine. Depending on the variety, they’ll turn a rich red, golden yellow, or vibrant orange when ready to pick.

Pest Prevention

Keep your tomato plants healthy by staying ahead of common pests and diseases. To combat blight, spray regularly with Grosafe Free Flo Copper, and use Yates Nature’s Way Fungus Spray to control powdery mildew. For protection against insect pests, apply Yates Success Ultra. Whatever product you choose, always read and follow the label instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use. It's best to apply sprays in the evening hours to avoid harming beneficial insects.

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