Explore Vegetables.im
Tomatoes.vegetables.im
Kit & books

Garden kit and books for growing tomatoes

A short, sensible list. You don’t need most of it: a packet of seeds, a warm windowsill, a pot and a cane will get you started.

Affiliate links: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. These are Amazon UK search links, not endorsements of particular products. Read reviews and pick what suits you.

Seeds and sowing

  • Tomato seeds (affiliate link)Garden Organic says there are hundreds of varieties; the RHS says small-fruited ones tend to be the easiest.
  • Heated propagators (affiliate link)Tomato seeds need about 18°C to germinate, says the RHS. A warm windowsill and a clear plastic bag also work.
  • Small plant pots (affiliate link)For moving seedlings into their own pots once they have a couple of true leaves.

Growing on

  • Growing bags (affiliate link)The RHS suggests two plants in a standard growing bag, or one in a 30–45cm pot.
  • Canes and stakes (affiliate link)Tomatoes don’t cling to supports by themselves, so tie them in as they grow.
  • Garden twine (affiliate link)For tying in, or winding plants round a string.
  • Tomato cages (affiliate link)UMN suggests stakes, cages, spirals or trellises, put in at planting time.

Feeding and protecting

  • Tomato feed (affiliate link)The RHS says feed container plants every 10–14 days with a high potassium liquid feed once the first fruits start to swell.
  • Horticultural fleece (affiliate link)Garden Organic suggests fleece to protect plants from frost at the end of the season.

Books and planners