The pH is the general measurement of acidity in the soil. Tomatoes require a soil with a pH in the range of 6.2 to 6.8. Rotted manures, compost, rotted sawdust or other humus can be tilled into the garden site as soon as the soils can be worked in the spring. Tomatoes prefer soil that is well-drained and amended heavily with organic matter. Choose a sunny location that receives at least eight hours of sunlight each day. Tomatoes are warm-season plants that grow best at temperatures of 70 degrees to 80 degrees F and require six to eight hours of sunlight. Some southern areas of Georgia can also produce a second crop of tomatoes when planted in late July. Tomato plants can be set out in the garden in mid-March to early May after any danger of frost has passed. About a week before transplanting, harden-off indoor grown plants by gradually exposing them to an increasing number of hours of light each day. You may need to use supplemental light if a south-facing sunny window is not available for growing. If starting your own plants from seed, use a light soil mix and give the plants plenty of light. Transplants can also be purchased from a garden center, ready to plant immediately. Tomato plants can be started indoors from seed four to seven weeks before they are to be planted. This publication will discuss the basics of growing tomatoes successfully, as well as avoiding common problems encountered by the home gardener. There is also plenty of discussion among fellow gardeners as to the best varieties and method of growing each type. Tomatoes are considered by many to be the most prized vegetable in the garden. It would be hard to imagine any home garden that did not have at least a few tomato plants. This publication is part of the Home Garden series.
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