Sowing & Growing

Sow your seeds approximately 3mm (1/8in) deep in small pots using seed starting compost. Lightly water and ensure consistent moisture until germination, typically occurring within 5 to 10 days at an optimal temperature range of 21 to 27°C (70 to 80°F). Once emerged, relocate them to a well-lit area with a cooler temperature (60 to 70°F), such as a south-facing window.

Transplanting: When the plants develop their first true leaves and before they become root-bound, transplant them into larger 20cm (4in) pots. Young plants are vulnerable to frost damage and sunburn, so protect them by creating a miniature greenhouse using a large plastic milk jug with the bottom removed. Depending on your compost, consider fertilizing sparingly with a weak dilution. Transplant into their final positions when they reach about 15cm (6in) in height, with a recommended hardening-off period of two to three weeks prior.

Planting: Before transplanting, insert a sturdy stake 5cm (2in) from the planting position. The stake should be at least 30cm (1ft) deep in the ground and 1.2m (4ft) above ground level. As the plant grows, tie the main stem to the support stake, checking ties to prevent cutting into the stem. Dig a hole 45cm (18in) apart in the bed to the same depth as the pot, water if conditions are dry, and place the plant in the hole, filling around it with soil. Loosely tie the plant’s stem to the support stake with soft garden twine, allowing slack for future growth.

Cultivation: Maintain a consistent moisture supply to prevent fruit splitting during dry periods. Start feeding with a liquid tomato fertilizer (high in potash) when the first fruits appear, repeating every two or three weeks until the end of August. In September, switch to a general fertilizer (higher in nitrogen) to support foliage. Be cautious with watering, as overwatering may produce larger but less flavourful fruit, and uneven watering can lead to splitting and cracking.

Pruning: When the first fruits begin to form, pinch out side shoots between the main stem and remove lower leaves showing signs of yellowing to prevent infection.

Harvest: Pick ripe fruits as soon as they mature, encouraging more fruit production. Harvest all fruits if frost threatens, ripening them on a windowsill.