Growing Cherry Tomatoes: A Complete Guide

Cherry tomatoes are one of the most rewarding vegetables to grow in your garden or containers. These small, sweet fruits are prolific producers and relatively easy to cultivate even for beginners. This guide covers everything you need to know to successfully grow cherry tomatoes from seed to harvest.

Getting Started: Seeds and Germination

Cherry tomato seeds typically germinate in 5-10 days under optimal conditions. For best results:

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date
• Use a quality seed starting mix in clean containers with drainage
• Maintain soil temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C) for fastest germination
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Once seedlings emerge, provide bright light immediately

Light Requirements

Cherry tomatoes are sun-loving plants that require:

• Full sun (6-8 hours minimum of direct sunlight daily)
• South-facing exposure is ideal in the Northern Hemisphere
• Insufficient light results in leggy plants and reduced fruit production

Temperature Preferences

Cherry tomatoes are warm-season crops with specific temperature needs:

• Ideal daytime temperatures: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
• Ideal nighttime temperatures: 60-70°F (15-21°C)
• Will stop growing below 50°F (10°C)
• Can be damaged by temperatures above 95°F (35°C)
• Protect from frost at all costs – even a light frost can kill plants

Spacing Guidelines

Proper spacing is crucial for healthy plants and good airflow:

• In-ground rows: Space plants 18-24 inches apart with 3-4 feet between rows
• Raised beds: 18-24 inches between plants in all directions
• Containers: One plant per 5-gallon container minimum (larger is better)
• Square foot gardening: One cherry tomato plant per 4 square feet

Soil Requirements

Cherry tomatoes thrive in:

• Well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0)
• Soil amended with compost before planting
• Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture

Watering Practices

Consistent watering is key for preventing problems:

• Water deeply 1-2 times per week rather than frequent shallow watering
• Aim for 1-2 inches of water weekly (adjust for rainfall)
• Water at the base of plants to keep foliage dry
• Mulch with 2-3 inches of organic material to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Increase watering during fruit production and hot weather

Support Systems

Most cherry tomato varieties are indeterminate (continuously growing) and require support:

• Cages: 5-6 feet tall minimum for most cherry varieties
• Stakes: 6-8 feet tall driven 1 foot into the ground
• Trellises: Excellent for maximizing space and air circulation
• String systems: Popular for greenhouse growing

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular maintenance improves plant health and productivity:

• Remove suckers (side shoots that form in leaf axils) for better air circulation

• Prune lower leaves that touch the soil to prevent disease spread
• Remove any yellowing or diseased foliage promptly
• Harvest regularly to encourage continued production

Fertilization

Cherry tomatoes are moderate to heavy feeders:

• Apply balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) at planting time
• Switch to lower nitrogen, higher phosphorus and potassium fertilizer once flowering begins
• Side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks
• Consider calcium supplementation to prevent blossom end rot

Harvesting

Cherry tomatoes are ready to harvest:

• 50-80 days after transplanting (variety dependent)
• When fully colored (red, yellow, black, etc. depending on variety)
• When slightly soft to the touch but still firm
• For best flavor, pick in the morning after dew has dried

Common Problems and Solutions

• Blossom end rot: Ensure consistent watering and adequate calcium

• Cracking: Maintain even soil moisture, especially during fruit ripening

• Early blight/Late blight: Improve air circulation, avoid wetting foliage
• Aphids/Whiteflies: Introduce beneficial insects or use insecticidal soap

• Tomato hornworms: Handpick and remove, or use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis)

With proper care and attention to these key factors, you'll be enjoying a bountiful harvest of delicious cherry tomatoes throughout the growing season!