How to Grow SuperSweet 100 Tomatoes

Have you ever wondered how to grow tomatoes that are not only abundant but also bursting with sugary sweetness? If so, SuperSweet 100 tomatoes might be just what you’re looking for! These cherry tomatoes are renowned for their incredible flavor and impressive yield, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether you’re planning to grow them in a garden bed, a container, or on a trellis, this guide will help you master the art of growing SuperSweet 100 tomatoes. Let’s get started with some expert tips to ensure you get the best harvest possible!

What Makes SuperSweet 100 Tomatoes Special?

SuperSweet 100 tomatoes are an indeterminate variety, meaning they continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season until the first frost. They are beloved for their exceptionally sweet flavor, with a sugar content higher than most other cherry tomato varieties. The plants produce long clusters of small, bright red tomatoes that are perfect for snacking, salads, and garnishes. Their vigorous growth and prolific production make them a must-have in any garden.

Getting Started: Choosing the Right Location

One of the most important factors in growing healthy, productive SuperSweet 100 tomatoes is choosing the right location. Tomatoes thrive in full sunlight, so select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The more sunlight your plants receive, the better they will perform in terms of fruit production and flavor development.

Soil Preparation

Tomatoes require well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and nutrient content. The soil pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 6.8. You can test your soil’s pH with a home testing kit and adjust it if necessary. If the soil is too acidic, adding lime can help raise the pH. If it’s too alkaline, sulfur can help lower it.

Containers and Raised Beds

If you’re short on garden space or prefer container gardening, SuperSweet 100 tomatoes grow exceptionally well in pots or raised beds. Choose a container that’s at least 18-24 inches in diameter and equally deep, with good drainage holes. Fill it with high-quality potting mix enriched with compost. Raised beds should be at least 12-18 inches deep to allow ample room for root development.

Planting SuperSweet 100 Tomatoes

When it comes to planting, timing is everything. Tomatoes are warm-weather plants that don’t tolerate frost, so it’s crucial to wait until the danger of frost has passed before planting outdoors. If you’re starting from seeds indoors, plant them 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.

Transplanting Seedlings

If you’ve started your SuperSweet 100 tomatoes from seeds indoors, they’ll be ready to transplant into the garden when they are 6-8 inches tall and have at least two sets of true leaves. Before transplanting, harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days.

When planting, space your tomato seedlings about 24-36 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and to give the plants room to grow. Plant them deeper than they were in their seedling pots, burying the stem up to the first set of leaves. This encourages the development of a stronger root system, which supports the vigorous growth of these plants.

Supporting Your Tomato Plants

SuperSweet 100 tomato plants are indeterminate and can grow quite tall, often reaching heights of 6-10 feet or more. Providing adequate support is essential to keep the plants healthy and prevent the fruit from touching the ground, where it can rot or be damaged by pests.

Staking

Staking is a popular method for supporting tomato plants. Drive a sturdy wooden or metal stake into the ground next to each plant, and use soft ties to secure the main stem to the stake as it grows. This method is simple and effective, but it requires regular attention to keep the plant tied securely as it grows.

Caging

Tomato cages are another excellent option, especially for SuperSweet 100 tomatoes, which can become quite sprawling. Choose a cage that is at least 4-5 feet tall and strong enough to support the weight of the plant and its fruit. Place the cage over the young plant at the time of planting to avoid damaging the roots later.

Trellising

For a more vertical gardening approach, you can train your SuperSweet 100 tomatoes to grow up a trellis. This method is particularly useful in small gardens or for growing along a fence. Simply guide the main stem along the trellis, tying it loosely with garden twine as it grows. Trellising helps maximize space and makes harvesting easier.

Watering: The Key to Juicy Tomatoes

Proper watering is crucial to the success of your tomato plants. SuperSweet 100 tomatoes need consistent moisture to produce juicy, flavorful fruit. However, it’s important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.

Watering Schedule

Tomatoes typically need about 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on weather conditions. In hot, dry climates, you may need to water more frequently. Water deeply and slowly to ensure that the moisture reaches the root zone. It’s best to water in the early morning so the plants have time to dry out during the day, which helps prevent fungal diseases.

Mulching

Mulching is an effective way to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw, shredded leaves, or compost, around the base of your tomato plants. Be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent moisture buildup that could cause rot.

Fertilizing for a Bountiful Harvest

SuperSweet 100 tomatoes are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients to support their rapid growth and prolific fruit production. Providing the right balance of nutrients is essential for healthy plants and a plentiful harvest.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer

Start by working a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) into the soil at the time of planting. Once the plants start to flower, switch to a fertilizer that’s higher in phosphorus and potassium, such as a 5-10-10 formula, to encourage fruit development. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen, as they can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

Feeding Schedule

Fertilize your SuperSweet 100 tomatoes every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season. You can also give them a boost with liquid seaweed or fish emulsion every 2-3 weeks. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates, and water the plants thoroughly after feeding to prevent root burn.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning your tomato plants helps improve air circulation, reduce the risk of disease, and direct the plant’s energy towards fruit production rather than excessive foliage growth.

Pruning Suckers

Suckers are the small shoots that grow in the junction between the main stem and the leaf branches. While some gardeners choose to let suckers grow, pruning them can lead to better airflow and larger fruit. To prune, simply pinch off the suckers when they are small (about 2-4 inches long). Be careful not to remove too many suckers at once, as this can stress the plant.

Removing Yellow or Diseased Leaves

As your tomato plants grow, you may notice some leaves turning yellow or showing signs of disease. Remove these leaves promptly to prevent the spread of disease and to keep the plant focused on producing healthy fruit.

Pests and Diseases: Protecting Your SuperSweet 100 Tomatoes

Like all tomatoes, SuperSweet 100 tomatoes are susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Being proactive in monitoring and addressing these issues can help keep your plants healthy and productive.

Common Pests

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from tomato leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. Control aphids by spraying the plants with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
• Tomato Hornworms: These large, green caterpillars can quickly defoliate a tomato plant. Handpick hornworms off the plants and dispose of them, or use a natural insecticide like Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) if the infestation is severe.
• Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects can weaken tomato plants by feeding on the undersides of leaves. Use yellow sticky traps to catch whiteflies, or apply neem oil to deter them.

Common Diseases

• Blossom End Rot: This disorder causes dark, sunken spots on the bottom of the fruit and is typically caused by calcium deficiency or inconsistent watering. To prevent blossom end rot, maintain consistent soil moisture and ensure your soil has adequate calcium.
• Early Blight: This fungal disease causes dark, concentric rings on the leaves and fruit. Prevent early blight by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and applying a fungicide if necessary.
• Fusarium Wilt: This soil-borne fungus causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To prevent fusarium wilt, rotate your crops each year and plant resistant varieties if possible.

Harvesting SuperSweet 100 Tomatoes

One of the most rewarding aspects of growing SuperSweet 100 tomatoes is the harvest. These tomatoes typically start to ripen about 65-70 days after transplanting. The fruit is ready to pick when it is fully red and slightly firm to the touch. Harvest regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruit.

Storing Your Harvest

SuperSweet 100 tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have a large harvest, you can store them at room temperature for several days. Avoid refrigerating tomatoes, as cold temperatures can diminish their flavor and texture. If you need to store them for a longer period, consider canning, drying, or freezing the tomatoes.

Enjoying Your SuperSweet 100 Tomatoes

With their exceptional sweetness and rich flavor, SuperSweet 100 tomatoes are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Enjoy them fresh in salads, on skewers, or as a snack right off the vine. They also make a wonderful addition to pasta dishes, salsas, and sauces. However you choose to use them, these tomatoes are sure to be a delicious and satisfying addition to your meals.

Growing SuperSweet 100 tomatoes is a delightful and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of some of the sweetest and most flavorful tomatoes you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re growing them in your backyard garden, on a balcony, or in a community garden plot, SuperSweet 100 tomatoes are sure to bring joy and satisfaction to your gardening journey.