Three tips for growing your own tomatoes at home
TASTY British tomatoes are coming into season and filling the supermarket shelves.
But why not save some cash and have a go at growing your own
Here's what you need to know.
PICK YOUR SPOT: Tomatoes typically grow well in a greenhouse or conservatory but there are varieties that can thrive in smaller spaces.
Just pick your tomato plant based on where it will live, says Nigel Lawton, plant buyer at Dobbies garden centres.
He adds: 'For beginners, patio or hanging basket varieties can be ideal and are great for smaller spaces.'
If you have a sunny balcony or patio, tomatoes do well in containers.
Or indoors you can get a Pick & Joy tomato plant for sweet cherry tomatoes from your windowsill with minimal fuss.
WATER WORKS: To get the best growth from your plant, remember that all tomatoes require regular watering.
Nigel says: 'Early morning or late afternoon is best, making sure the soil stays consistently moist.
"Tomato plants should never be allowed to dry out.'
They'll also need lots of sunlight.
Grow your groceries - how to grow tomatoes from tomatoes!
Try using a large pot and fill it with some rocks at the bottom for drainage.
Add a good-quality peat-free compost and plant your tomatoes using a hand trowel.
Place the container in a spot where it gets as much sun as possible and you can enjoy tomatoes in as little as a few months.
Nigel adds: 'If you're growing tall varieties, you should support them with bamboo canes and pinch out the side shoots to focus the energy on fruit.'
TUCK IN: Once your plant starts to give fruit, you can enjoy your own homemade tomato salads.
If you find you have an abundance of tomatoes, try creating your own delicious tomato sauce that is perfect for pasta.
Simply slice and bake in the oven at 180C for half an hour until soft, with plenty of olive oil and some garlic or onion.
When cooled, blitz up in a blender and it's ready to go.
All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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