Tomato Growing Structures

A small structure for tomato plants could consist of a hog fence circling a plant (or two) with clear plastic wrapped around it. A larger tent or lean-to would encompass several plants. Tomato plants are too large for cold frames, so the next step would be a hoop house or other growing structure, and the ultimate is, of course, the dedicated greenhouse.

Heat collecting structures have one thing in common - they will need to be regulated to prevent overheating. The smaller the enclosed area, the more need for close vigilance.

Heat-collecting structures may be built using common materials, or may be purchased already made. The picture show one which is built and marketed locally and boasts forty square feet of gardening room. There is much more information on this and other products on the company's web site.

Tomatoes should not be planted in the same soil each year. If your heat structure is not capable of moving to another piece of ground you should consider planting in tubs and replacing the soil each year. Tubs have the added bonus of keeping the roots a bit warmer and this will give you a slightly earlier harvest.

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