β’Selecting Seeds: Obtain Calabash tomato seeds from a reputable supplier or nursery. Look for seeds that are fresh and suitable for planting.
β’Choosing a Planting Location: Calabash tomatoes require full sunlight to thrive. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile.
β’Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of at least 12 inches. Remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
β’Planting Time: Calabash tomatoes are warm-season plants and are best planted after the last frost date in your area. Wait until the soil has warmed to at least 60Β°F (15Β°C) before planting. In cooler climates, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date and transplant seedlings outdoors once the weather warms up.
β’Planting Seeds or Seedlings: Plant Calabash tomato seeds directly into the garden bed or start seeds indoors in biodegradable pots. Sow the seeds ΒΌ to Β½ inch deep and space them 18-24 inches apart. If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings into the garden bed once they have developed several sets of true leaves.
β’Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the newly planted seeds or seedlings thoroughly after planting, and continue to water regularly, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can promote fungal diseases.
β’Support Structures (Optional): Calabash tomato plants can become sprawling, so providing support structures such as trellises or tomato cages can help keep the plants upright and minimize space requirements.
β’Fertilizing: Calabash tomatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Incorporate a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, and side-dress the plants with additional fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to provide ongoing nutrients.
β’Mulching (Optional): Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of the tomato plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
β’Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common tomato pests such as aphids, hornworms, and tomato fruitworms. Remove any pests by hand or use organic insecticides if necessary. Monitor the plants for signs of diseases such as blight or powdery mildew and treat promptly if detected.
β’Harvesting: Calabash tomatoes are typically ready for harvest 70-80 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvest the tomatoes when they reach full size and color, usually about 2-3 inches in diameter and golden yellow. Use scissors or pruners to snip the tomatoes from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Enjoy the sweet and flavorful harvest of homegrown Calabash tomatoes!