Tomato Seeds,
Kellogg's Breakfast

Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant outdoors only after the last frost, when the temperature is consistently at least 60 F. Check your local last frost date to determine the right time to start seeds. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post "Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources."

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed-starting mix indoors, maintaining a temperature of 70-80 F for germination. Provide 6-8 hours of light daily using grow lights or natural sunlight. Gradually harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before planting outdoors. Space plants 24 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.

Water deeply 1-2 times per week, adjusting based on rainfall, and mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and a phosphorus-heavy fertilizer when fruiting begins. Use sturdy stakes, trellises, or cages to support the heavy vines and fruit. Prune suckers and yellowing leaves to improve airflow and direct energy to fruit production.

• Most tomatoes are self-pollinating and don't frequently cross; in a garden setting, separating by 25 feet should prevent 99% of cross-pollination. Or you can bag and hand pollinate for 100% purity.
• On a small scale, seeds may be scooped from the fruits and dried on a paper towel.
• For larger quantities or cleaner seeds, fermentation for a few days is recommended.
• Once dry, tomato seed can be stored in a cool, dry, dark place; good seed retains viability for 5 years or more.