You can start tomato seeds indoors using a heat mat to encourage germination. Once the seedlings sprout and grow a few sets of leaves, move them outdoors. Keep the soil moist and provide 4–6 hours of sunlight daily. When direct sowing tomato seeds, plant them about 1/2 inch deep in well-drained soil. Space them 15 inches apart to allow for healthy growth and good air circulation.

To harvest tomatoes wait until they reach their mature color and have a firm texture. Gently twist or cut the stem using pruning shears. For vine-ripened flavor, allow tomatoes to fully ripen on the plant. Regularly pick ripe tomatoes to encourage more fruit production.