Choosing a growing method...

huntsman · August 7, 2009

My growing season is upon me and I planted my first ever tomato seeds four days ago.

Already most have sprouted and I realise I am totally unprepared! Inadequate lighting, heating etc, and more importantly: WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?!

I have not really researched the various methods of growing, only finding out a little about the 'Raised Bed' method, and touching on the 'EarthTainer' way, and now my sprouts have caught me unaware!

Perhaps you more experienced folk can save me a great deal of time and pain, and suggest which direction I should move in for my first crop? Raised Bed, Direct in the garden, Self Watering, Container growing or whatever....?
I'd really appreciate the input so I can start planning.

I intend to grow for the family, but with the economy the way it is, I might well try to sell at a local Farmer's Market.

I would like ten or 20 varieties, (but am open to advice) and have about 12 x 5' of space that I was hoping to allocate to toms.

Sorry to dump this on you, but it's pretty daunting to be honest!

))

August 7, 2009	#1
huntsman Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Johannesburg, South Africa - GrowZone 9 Posts: 595	Choosing a growing method... My growing season is upon me and I planted my first ever tomato seeds four days ago. Already most have sprouted and I realise I am totally unprepared! Inadequate lighting, heating etc, and more importantly: WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?! I have not really researched the various methods of growing, only finding out a little about the 'Raised Bed' method, and touching on the 'EarthTainer' way, and now my sprouts have caught me unaware! Perhaps you more experienced folk can save me a great deal of time and pain, and suggest which direction I should move in for my first crop? Raised Bed, Direct in the garden, Self Watering, Container growing or whatever....? I'd really appreciate the input so I can start planning. I intend to grow for the family, but with the economy the way it is, I might well try to sell at a local Farmer's Market. I would like ten or 20 varieties, (but am open to advice) and have about 12 x 5' of space that I was hoping to allocate to toms. Sorry to dump this on you, but it's pretty daunting to be honest! ))