Choose tomato seeds suited to your climate and growing season
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost
Fill seed trays or small pots with sterile seed-starting mix
Moisten the mix before planting
Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep
Cover lightly with seed-starting mix
Keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy
Place trays in a warm location, around 70 to 80 F
Use a humidity dome or plastic cover until germination
Remove the cover after seedlings emerge
Provide strong light for 12 to 16 hours daily
Keep seedlings close to grow lights to prevent legginess
Thin seedlings to one per cell or pot if needed
Water from the bottom or gently at the base
Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days before transplanting
Transplant outdoors after all frost danger has passed
Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun
Prepare soil with compost or well-rotted organic matter
Space plants according to variety recommendations
Plant seedlings deeper than they were in the pot
Water thoroughly after transplanting
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds
Support plants with stakes, cages, or trellises
Water consistently throughout the growing season
Fertilize as needed based on soil and plant growth
Remove suckers if growing indeterminate varieties and desired
Monitor for pests and diseases regularly
Harvest tomatoes when fully colored and slightly soft