LPR TOMATO SEEDS Seed (50 per packet)

The tomato is a vigorously growing plant with attractive foliage resembling the potato, its cousin. The plants have a decided odour caused by gland hairs on the stems and leaves, which give off a strong-scented oil and stain when broken. The fruit is borne on spurs, which develop directly from the stem. Tomatoes should not be planted outdoors until day and night temperatures are about 55 degrees. Low temperatures (below 55 degrees) prevent fruit set. Soil temperatures should be at least 55-60 F to transplant. Otherwise plants may turn yellow, become stunted and slow to bear. Seed should be started indoors 6-8 weeks before plants are set out, or use transplants, which are widely available. Sunlight: Full sun, Partial sun Soil: Choose well drained, deep and loamy soil. Plan on providing fertile, organically enriched soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8 for best flavour. Blossom-end rot is due to calcium deficiency. Lime the tomato soil at the rate of 5 pounds per 100 square feet. Water: Tomato plants need at least an inch of water per week; so water them well, especially during dry spells. Temperature: Germination 60 to 85 F For Growth 70 to 75 F Fertilizer: Fertilizer formulas such as 5-10-10 are good. Bone meal or ground rock phosphate are also good.