Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily
Use well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost or buy healthy seedlings
Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days before transplanting outdoors
Plant tomatoes after all danger of frost has passed
Space plants properly to allow airflow
Bury seedlings deeply, covering part of the stem
Water deeply and consistently at the base of the plant
Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Support plants with stakes, cages, or trellises
Remove lower leaves that touch the soil
Fertilize with a balanced or tomato-specific fertilizer as needed
Avoid overusing nitrogen fertilizer
Prune suckers if growing indeterminate varieties
Check regularly for pests and diseases
Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and slightly soft
Pick frequently to encourage more fruit production