Growing tomatoes in pots is perfect for small-space gardens like patios or balconies. One of my most frequently asked gardening questions is: “Can I grow that in a pot”? For tomatoes, the answer is always – yes!
The best containers for tomatoes
Tomatoes can absolutely thrive when grown in a variety of containers. You can grow tomatoes in everything from food-safe 5 gallon buckets, tomato grow bags or (the best in my opinion) self-watering containers.
Tomatoes require lots of water, and anything grown in a container will dry out faster than being grown in the ground. Self-watering containers solve these two issues at once by providing regular and even moisture from the bottom, making for some seriously happy tomato plants.
My favorite container for growing tomatoes is the Oasis Self-Watering Container from Gardener’s Supply Company. It’s the perfect size for tomatoes and comes with some really great features:
- Sturdy trellis with optional extension for the extra tall tomato varieties
- Roller Ball Kit to move the lightweight planters around (um, game changer!)
- Self-watering system with water indicator so you know when to water.
- 3 cute colors to choose from (I have three of them in green).
What size pot is needed for tomatoes?
The minimum size pot needed to grow tomatoes should be at least 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep. However, tomatoes are a deep-rooting crop, so the deeper the pot, the better.
Tomatoes require lots of water and healthy soil. Using a self-watering container will make keeping up with watering so much easier.
The best tomatoes to grow in pots
The absolute best tomato for containers fall into two categories: Varieties that don’t get too tall (think determinate varieties) or quick to mature small-fruiting varieties like cherry tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes require less water to produce fruit (compare that to a big juicy 2 lb heirloom tomato), and tend to mature quickly, making them one of the best tomatoes for containers.
Here are some of my favorite varieties of tomatoes for pots:
The best soil for tomatoes in pots
Tomatoes are heavy feeders, meaning they require nutrient-rich soil to thrive. Definitely don’t skimp on quality soil for your tomatoes in pots!
Seek out an organic potting mix, specifically for vegetables. I love the Organic Self-Watering Potting Mix from Gardener’s Supply Company (what don’t I love from Gardener’s Supply Company?!), along with the Gardener’s Best Organic Tomato Fertilizer.
*Bonus: This fertilizer can also be used with plants in the solanaceae family like tomatillo, eggplant and peppers.
Questions about growing tomatoes in containers:
Yes. Deer will eat tomatoes if they are not properly protected.
The minimum size pot needed to grow tomatoes should be at least 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep. However, tomatoes are a deep-rooting crop, so the deeper the pot, the better.
Yes, as long as they are food-safe plastic and have drainage holes.
The minimum size pot needed to grow tomatoes should be at least 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep.
Did you try this in your garden?
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @growingwithgertie on Instagram.
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