Product Description

Growing Instructions

Sow indoors: Apr

Sow outdoors: May-Jul

Harvest: Jun-Sep

Sow black cherry tomato seeds sparsely in a seed tray, small pots, or cells. Cover them lightly, water gently, and maintain a temperature of 20-25 degrees Celsius, ideally on a windowsill. Such warmth is crucial for the germination of fruiting vegetables like tomatoes, aubergines, peppers, and chillies. For optimal results, start these vegetable seeds in a heated seed propagator or greenhouse. Within 8-20 days, subject to growing conditions, germination occurs; most vegetable seeds sprout within this period, depending on moisture and temperature.

Once the seedlings develop two pairs of true leaves, prick them out and transplant into individual small pots. If they grow rapidly and large, further repotting may be necessary. Ensure adequate spacing between the tomato leaves to facilitate air circulation, reducing the risk of disease in these young, delicate plants. Maintain temperatures between 12-20 degrees Celsius during this stage.

Plant the black cherry tomato plants outdoors from mid-May to June, when frost risk is absent, spacing them 80x60 cm apart. Alternatively, grow them in the border of a greenhouse or polytunnel, either in a growbag or rich, moist soil.

Support the growing stems with twine, providing a training system for the upward growth typical of cordon tomatoes. Regularly remove side shoots, starting when the plants have 2-3 pairs of true leaves. Limiting the plant to one main stem is essential for black cherry tomatoes. Halt plant growth by pinching out the top growing point after 4-5 trusses have set for outdoor plants, or 6-7 trusses for those grown under cover. Remove lower leaves as they begin to yellow to enhance fruit ripening and improve air circulation, crucial for reducing humidity and preventing disease. Good air flow is vital to keep the tomato plants healthy.