Planting tomatoes lying down or at an angle is a practical way of transplanting seedlings into open ground or a greenhouse. It is often used by gardeners when plants have overgrown, stretched out on the windowsill, or have an excessively long stem.
UNN explains how to do this correctly so as not to harm the plant and to ensure a good harvest in the future.
Why tomatoes are planted lying down
At first glance, this method seems unusual: the seedling is placed almost horizontally rather than vertically in the hole. However, for tomatoes, this is a safe method because the part of the stem that ends up underground is capable of forming adventitious roots.
It is this specific feature that makes planting lying down beneficial. The buried stem gradually becomes covered with new roots, allowing the plant to access a larger feeding area. The bush anchors better in the soil, absorbs water and nutrients more actively, and tolerates transplanting more easily.
When you should plant tomatoes lying down
Most often, this method is used for overgrown seedlings. If tomatoes have been indoors for a long time, received little light, or were waiting for favorable weather for planting, they can stretch significantly. The stem becomes long and thin, and the plant itself struggles to stay upright. In such a situation, conventional planting in a deep hole is not always convenient, especially if the soil is still cold at depth.
Planting lying down allows you not to bury the roots too deeply. The main part of the root system remains in the warm upper layer of the soil, while the stem is placed horizontally in a shallow trench. This is important in the spring when the ground warms up unevenly. In the upper layer, the tomato adapts faster and begins to grow new roots.
Planting tomatoes lying down: what are the advantages of the method
The main advantage of planting lying down is the formation of an additional root system. A tomato stem has root primordia that activate upon contact with moist soil. The more of the stem is buried, the more points there are for root formation.
Developed roots better absorb nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other elements necessary for growth, flowering, and fruit formation.
In addition, the plant becomes more resistant to short-term drought because it has more roots in the fertile layer of the earth. Also, with this planting method, the tomato holds better in the soil, which is important in open areas where winds occur.
How to prepare seedlings for planting tomatoes
Before planting, it is advisable to harden off the seedlings. A few days before transplanting, the tomatoes are taken out into the fresh air or left in a cooler place, gradually increasing the time spent outdoors. This reduces stress after planting.
Before planting, leaves are carefully removed from the lower part of the stem. Only the top with a few developed leaves is left. Leaves that will end up underground must be removed, otherwise they may rot.
If the seedling is very long, it should not be bent sharply. It is better to lay the plant down smoothly at a slight angle, leaving the top above the surface. In a day or two, it will reach toward the light and straighten itself out.
How to correctly plant tomatoes lying down
A long trench is dug for planting. Its depth is usually 10-15 cm. The length depends on the size of the seedling. Compost or humus and a little wood ash can be added to the trench, and the fertilizers should be well mixed with the soil so that the roots do not come into contact with concentrated substances.
The seedling is placed in the trench so that the root ball and part of the stem are underground, while the top remains outside. The stem is covered with loose soil, lightly compacted, and watered with warm water.
After watering, the ground can be mulched with mown grass, straw, or compost. Mulch helps retain moisture, reduces soil overheating, and inhibits weed growth. At the same time, it should not be placed right against the stem to avoid creating excess moisture near the plant.
Planting tomatoes using the "lying down" method: what should be the distance between plants
During horizontal planting, tomatoes take up more space than with traditional planting in a hole. This should be taken into account in advance. An empty space of at least 40-50 cm should be left between bushes for low-growing varieties and 60-70 cm for tall varieties.
Overcrowding worsens ventilation, increases the risk of fungal diseases, and complicates care. Tomatoes need space, light, and access to air. If plants are planted too close together, even a strong root system will not compensate for the lack of lighting.
Caring for tomatoes after planting
In the first days after planting, the plants may appear wilted, but there is no need to panic: this is a normal reaction to transplanting. Tomatoes should be watered moderately but regularly, based on the soil condition. Excessive moisture is dangerous as it can cause root rot and the development of diseases.
When the top rises, the plant is tied to a stake or trellis if necessary. This is especially important for tall varieties.
Fertilizing is carried out after the plant has taken root. Usually, the first feeding is done 10–14 days after planting. At the beginning of growth, tomatoes need nitrogen, but you shouldn't overdo it: an excess of nitrogen stimulates leaves rather than fruit. During flowering and fruiting, potassium and phosphorus become more important.
What mistakes to avoid when planting tomatoes
The most common mistake is burying the stem along with the leaves. Leaves are not needed in the soil; they only increase the risk of rot.
The second mistake is planting tomatoes in cold ground. If the soil has not yet warmed up, the plant will take longer to take root and may stop growing.
The third mistake is excessive watering after planting.
Also, you should not heavily fertilize freshly planted tomatoes immediately. The root system must adapt after transplanting. Concentrated fertilizers can damage young roots. It is better to give the plant a few days to recover and then gradually move to regular care.
Planting lying down is a useful way to grow tomatoes. But it is worth remembering that this is suitable for weak, tall plants with poorly developed roots. Such planting will strengthen their root system. Meanwhile, sturdy seedlings can be planted using the familiar and conventional method—by digging a hole.
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