Tomatoes started in February

The perfect tomato starts in February.  I start several varieties of tomato seeds under grow lights in my basement.

starting tomato seeds

tomato seeds sprouting

By the end of April, they are ready to go outside under a Tunnel Garden low tunnel.  This is 4-5 weeks earlier than I can plant them outside unprotected.  I have started them earlier, but have found that I get my first tomato on the same date, which is about July 14.

Planting tomatoes in April

By planting early, I get hundreds of pounds of tomatoes.  I pick three of these bowls full every week from 12 plants.  I have made 23 quarts of salsa and next week will start on spaghetti sauce.

large yield of tomatoes