Really dumb newbie question

[roxtar]

Exactly how big does a tomato need to be before it gets put out in the garden? Started all my seeds this year on March 15th (Brandywine, San Marzano, Roma, and Sun Gold) and these seedlings are waaay smaller than the plants I used to buy from the local nursery.

I've never started from seed before and am just wondering if 2 month old plants are going to be big enough to put out. They're all on average 6 to 10 inches tall I guess (fully formed true leaves).... They're in 16oz. foam coffee cups right now.

Other thing I'm wondering is how old those plants that I used to buy at the nursery and for sale in the big box stores are, they must start the doggone things in November

Am I going to be able to plant these guys in about a week or so and just be a little more patient, or should I go buy some tomato plants and start my seeds earlier next year?

[garnetmoth]

no dumb questions :-) (ok im sure there ARE some, but this isnt one!)

in my experience, it more matters that the plants have been properly "hardened off" before planting outside. Gradually acclimated to the wind and full sun outside, so they arent a pile of mush after transplanting.

If the plants are hardened off well, and its past your last frost date, id just plant them a little deep so they can grow more roots, water in well, and keep the area weeded somewhat so they get full sun.

Dont forget to space them well! Ive planted small transplants too close before.

[cottonpicker]

I'd agree with garnetmoth.......... they'll be OK and will "catch up" if properly hardened & planted in good soil without crowding. Good luck!

LarryD

[creister]

I really think the ones you buy from box stores have been treated with fertilizer in order to get some good growth, so plants looked good enough to buy.

If your plants are 10 inches, they are good to go, as long as you have hardened them off like the others have said.

[roxtar]

Thank you all for your input. Much appreciated.