Highly nutritious black tomatoes can be planted in June

Now you too can grow black tomatoes in a pot. They are more nutritious than red tomatoes. Growing black tomatoes in a pot requires some special attention. Here is a step-by-step process that will help you easily grow black tomatoes:

1. Selection of the right pot and soil:

• Pot: Take a large pot that is at least 12–18 inches deep and wide. Choose a deep pot so that the tomato roots can spread properly.

• Soil: Choose well-drained soil. You can also use a ready-made organic mix (like a mixture of potting soil, compost, and sand). This helps retain nutrients in the soil.

2. Seed selection and germination:

Black tomato seeds are easily available in online markets. You can find varieties like Indigo Rose, Black Krim, Black Metal, or Black Beauty.

To germinate the seeds, you can use a seed pad, wrap them in a moist paper, or sow them directly into the soil. Press the seeds lightly into the soil and spray water over them.

3. Transplanting and selecting the location:

When the seeds germinate and small plants begin to emerge (in about 3–4 weeks), you can transplant them into the pot.

Place the pot in a sunny spot, as tomatoes need at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.

4. Watering:

Maintain a balance while watering the pot. Too much water can rot the roots, and too little water can dry out the plant. Water when the top layer of soil becomes dry. Especially in summer, you may need to water lightly once or twice a day.

5. Fertilizer and nutrition:

For good tomato growth, use organic fertilizer like cow dung manure or compost. Apply a little nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-based fertilizer every 3–4 weeks.

When flowers begin to appear, increase the amount of phosphorus and potassium so that the fruit develops well.

6. Support for the plant:

As the plant grows, use a stake or tomato support to hold it up. This prevents the plant from falling and helps the fruit grow properly.

7. Care of flowers and fruits:

Use organic pesticides from time to time for the flowers and fruits of black tomatoes. If pests like aphids or mosquitoes are more, use organic sprays like neem oil.

8. Harvesting the crop:

When the color of the tomato starts turning from deep purple to black, it is a sign of ripening. Gently pluck the tomatoes. Overripe tomatoes may rot, so be careful.

9. Winter care:

Protect the pot from cold winds in winter. You can also bring the pot indoors, where it gets some sunlight and the cold has less effect.

This way, you can grow black tomatoes in your pot. In the beginning, it will take a little time and attention, but in the end, the joy of growing tasty and beautiful black tomatoes is something else entirely.