Organic homegrown tomatoes are prized for their superior flavor and nutrition. Research shows organic tomatoes often have higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants – for example, they can contain about 20–30% more lycopene and vitamin C than conventionally grown tomatoes.
Many gardeners also feel organic tomatoes taste better. At the same time, organic methods yield important environmental benefits, such as cleaner water and healthier ecosystems, because they avoid synthetic chemicals.
Consumers clearly value these qualities. In the US, growers have rapidly increased organic tomato production to meet demand. For example, U.S. organic tomato acreage roughly doubled between 2011 and 2016, reaching about 12,400 acres in 2016.
This production often comes at a premium price – in one study organic tomatoes retailed for about $1.43 per pound versus $0.89 for conventional, a roughly 60% price increase.
So, what exactly is organic tomato farming? At its heart, organic tomato farming is a holistic approach that focuses on building healthy soil, encouraging biodiversity, and using only natural inputs. No synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers are used.
Instead, organic farmers rely on practices that “foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.” In practice this means feeding the soil with compost and cover crops, attracting beneficial insects and birds to control pests, and rotating crops to keep soil strong and disease-free.
The purpose of this guide is to give you a practical, step-by-step plan for growing tomatoes 100% organically. We’ll cover everything from choosing a site and soil prep, to planting, supporting, and caring for your plants, to harvest and storage.
Throughout, we’ll keep the tips simple and actionable. By following organic methods, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful tomatoes while nurturing the environment.
Planning and Preparation of Organic Tomato Farming
Planning and preparation are crucial for a successful organic tomato harvest. According to recent surveys, proper site selection and choosing disease-resistant varieties can increase organic tomato yields by 30–40% while reducing losses due to pests and diseases.
A. Choosing the Right Location
Before planting, pick a good spot for your tomatoes:
Full sun: Tomatoes need at least 8 hours of direct sun each day. More sun equals sweeter fruit and faster ripening.
Well-drained soil: Tomatoes dislike waterlogged roots. Loamy soil with good drainage is ideal. If your soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds or extensive compost incorporation.
Water access: Tomatoes need about 1–2 inches of water per week. Locate your garden near a water source or install a drip irrigation system.
Protection: Avoid areas with strong winds, which can damage plants and increase disease susceptibility. Ensure air circulation for disease prevention.
B. Selecting Your Tomato Varieties
Selecting the right tomato variety is critical. Modern organic gardeners often select varieties with disease resistance and flavor to optimize yield.
Heirloom vs. Hybrid: Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated and offer rich flavor and variety, while hybrids provide uniformity, disease resistance, and often higher yields.
Determinate vs. Indeterminate: Determinate (bush) tomatoes grow to a set height and produce fruit in a shorter period. Indeterminate (vining) tomatoes produce over a longer season and require staking or trellising.
Recommended varieties: Disease-resistant and flavorful options include ‘Celebrity’, ‘Sun Gold’, and ‘Brandywine’.
C. Sourcing Organic Seeds & Seedlings
Start with certified organic seeds or untreated seeds. Healthy seedlings should be robust and free from yellowing leaves or pests. Harden off seedlings for 7–10 days before transplanting to reduce shock and improve survival.
Creating the Optimal Organic Soil Environment
A healthy soil environment is essential. Data shows that organic soil amendments can boost tomato yields by up to 33%, while improving soil structure and moisture retention.
A. Soil Testing
Conduct a soil test to check pH and nutrient levels. Tomatoes prefer slightly acidic soil, pH 6.0–6.5. Adjust using lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower pH as needed. Knowing your soil’s nutrient profile guides effective organic amendments.
B. Amending the Soil Organically
Incorporate well-decomposed compost to provide nutrients and improve soil structure.
Add rock phosphate for phosphorus, greensand for potassium, and composted manure as needed.
Use cover crops (green manure) like rye, clover, or vetch to fix nitrogen and enhance organic matter.
C. Preparing Planting Beds
Prepare raised beds or in-ground rows with at least 6–12 inches of loose, nutrient-rich soil. Mixing in compost ensures adequate fertility for healthy root development and strong plant growth.
Planting and Training of Organic Tomato Farming
Successful organic tomato farming requires careful planting and support. Proper planting timing, depth, and staking improve yield and fruit quality. Data shows that supported plants can reduce disease incidence by 20–30% and improve fruit size and evenness.
A. When to Plant: Plant after frost danger has passed and when night temperatures stay above 50°F. Soil should be above 60°F. Use row covers or low tunnels if the growing season is short.
B. The Planting Process:
Harden off seedlings for 7–10 days.
Plant deeply, burying about two-thirds of the stem to encourage stronger root development.
Space determinate plants 2–3 feet apart, indeterminate 3–4 feet apart.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
C. Staking and Support Systems: Support is crucial for healthy growth. Options include cages, trellises, and the Florida weave method. Proper support improves air circulation, reduces fruit rot, and makes harvesting easier.
D. Companion Planting for Tomatoes: Plant basil, marigolds, onions, or carrots nearby to improve flavor and naturally repel pests. Avoid brassicas and fennel, which can stunt tomato growth. Companion planting enhances garden biodiversity and plant health.
Ongoing Organic Care and Maintenance
Maintaining healthy tomatoes throughout the season is critical. Regular care helps maximize fruit yield, maintain soil fertility, and reduce pest and disease problems.
A. Organic Mulching: Apply mulches like straw, grass clippings, leaf mold, or wood chips. Mulch retains moisture, suppresses weeds, regulates soil temperature, and slowly adds organic matter as it decomposes.
B. Watering Practices: Water deeply and infrequently at the base of the plant. This encourages strong root growth and reduces fungal disease risks. Avoid wetting leaves unnecessarily.
C. Organic Fertilization Schedule: Use compost tea, fish emulsion, seaweed extract, or side-dress with compost to provide ongoing nutrients. Apply fertilizers during active growth and fruiting for best results.
D. Pruning and Suckering: Indeterminate varieties benefit from pruning to remove suckers (small shoots between main stem and branches). This improves air circulation, reduces disease, and directs energy to fruit production.
Organic Pest and Disease Management
Organic pest and disease management focuses on proactive, preventive measures. Maintaining strong plants and healthy soil reduces stress and susceptibility to pests. Integrated organic approaches can lower pest damage by up to 50%.
A. Common Tomato Pests & Organic Controls
Aphids: Blast with water, release ladybugs, or use neem oil.
Tomato Hornworms: Hand-pick or attract parasitic wasps.
Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap.
B. Common Tomato Diseases & Organic Controls
Early & Late Blight: Rotate crops, provide good spacing, use mulch; copper fungicides only if necessary.
Blossom End Rot: Ensure consistent watering and calcium-rich soil.
Powdery Mildew: Apply baking soda or milk sprays to prevent spread.
Harvesting and Storage of Organic Tomato Cultivation
Proper harvest and storage maximize flavor, nutrition, and shelf life. Organic tomatoes harvested at peak ripeness have the highest nutrient content.
A. When and How to Harvest: Pick in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Harvest fully colored, firm tomatoes gently to avoid bruising.
B. Storing Your Organic Harvest:
Short-term: Keep at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Long-term: Preserve via canning, freezing, or drying to maintain quality for months.
C. Saving Seeds for Next Season: Select healthy, ripe fruit. Ferment seeds in water for a few days, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Store in a cool, dark place until next planting season.
Conclusion
Organic tomato farming is a rewarding journey that connects you to nature. By focusing on soil health, ecosystem balance, and natural care, you can grow flavorful, nutritious tomatoes without synthetic chemicals. Success requires patience and careful observation, but the reward is fresh, vibrant fruit and a sustainable garden. Start your own organic tomato patch and experience the joy of growing food naturally.
