New Tomato Grower-Help!!

majeresmom · Tue Jul 10, 2007 8:14 pm

Help!! I want to grow some beefsteak tomatoes but there are so many varieties. How do I choose? I live in zone 9 and was planning on growing them in a container. I have areas in my backyard with full sun and partial shade. I need something fairly easy to grow as I am a beginner. Anyone have any suggestions? Also is it better to start them from seed or purchase seedlings/small plants?
Thanks
Emma

perfecttomato · Tue Jul 10, 2007 8:29 pm

chart, I am in the Sacramento Valley in CA. I have had my Tomato Big Beef in since April 24 and am harvesting one or two every other day. If you are in the same area, it might be a bit late to plant, but remember our season goes through Oct. For my area, I would not plant tomatoes in pots. I'd be watering them three times a day. Triple digit temps. for weeks make it almost impossible.

perfecttomato · Tue Jul 10, 2007 8:37 pm

I am a new member and just learning the site. Have you checked with the nursery?

LoreD · Fri Jul 13, 2007 11:35 am

Majeresmom,

I believe that the many of the people in your zone plant two separate times. They usually plant very early get a crop, rip them up, and then plant a second crop after the heat ends. I'm not sure about the times, but that is what people in Houston have said that they do.

LoreD

LoreD · Fri Jul 13, 2007 4:10 pm

I just checked on another forum and one of the south texas gardeners had just started his tomatoes for his "fall garden." I think you might have time.

LoreD

Grey · Sat Jul 14, 2007 4:33 pm

majeresmom: I grew tomatoes in FL for a long time. You'll want to start your tomatoes indoors in August to go in the ground in September. August is too hot yet, but you should get your yields by November/early December (cover the plants if a frost is predicted).

As for what kind? I can't tell you! There are so many, and I really haven't had troubles with tomatoes much in FL, just pick what calls your name and have fun!

dondrdon · Tue Jul 24, 2007 9:17 pm

try a variety called "health kicks" they produce very well, and will do well in a container. tasty as well

majeresmom · Wed Jul 25, 2007 7:55 pm

Great suggestions from everyone. Thanks so much. I am going to give the "health kicks" tomatoes a try. It sounds like I might do better planting tomatoes in the ground vs. a container since I live in central Florida. Does anyone disagree? Or, is there hope for the container option?

Thanks
Emma