Like any produce, tomatoes grow best with proper care. The following are some tomato-growing tips:

• Plant in a sunny location after all danger of frost is past and when the soil has warmed. Home gardeners can start tomato plants indoors from seed or purchase starter plants.
• When tomato seedlings have five to seven leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into the garden.
• Plants should be staked or caged for support.
• Space tomato plants 18 to 36 inches apart if staked or caged, and plant rows 36 inches apart.
• Use starter solution fertilizer for transplants. Side-dress one to two weeks after the first hand or cluster of tomatoes begin to develop with 3 tablespoons 33-0-0 per 10-foot row. Side-dress again two weeks after the first ripe tomato with a balanced fertilizer such as 5-10-5; repeat one month later.
• Maintain soil moisture at a constant level. Irregular watering leads to blossom end rot and fruit cracking.
• Each standard tomato plant, properly cared for, yields 10 to 15 pounds or more of fruit.

SOURCE: Virginia Cooperative Extension