How Big a Container for Tomatoes?

How Deep and Wide Should the Garden Container Be?

Dwarf varieties aside, the bottom line is that each tomato plant needs roughly one square foot to grow. So, a 12-inch diameter garden container will work for most tomato plants.

Depth is another consideration relating to container size. Tomato plants root at a medium depth, so they need one at least 12 inches deep.

If you want to grow indeterminate tomato varieties, you'll likely want to scale up with your garden container. These varieties typically grow nearly twice as large as their bush tomato counterparts.

Here, you may need a garden container up to 24 inches deep with a similar diameter.

If you prefer thinking about planter capacity, here are some guidelines:

• Determinate tomatoes: 5-gallon pot or larger
• Indeterminate tomatoes: 15-gallon pot or larger

Why a Bigger Container is Generally Better for Tomatoes

Independent of variety, you may want to choose a larger container from the get-go for your tomato plants. It presents some advantages:

• Root Growth: A larger garden container provides more room for the roots to grow. The better the root system, the healthier your tomato plants. And the healthier your tomato plants, the bigger your harvest. Healthy root growth also helps ward off diseases like blossom end rot.
• Moisture Retention: It stands to reason that larger garden containers hold more moisture. That's a massive plus for tomato plants, as they require regular watering. It also takes less effort and time to water plants.
• Stability: Larger garden boxes for tomatoes are more stable than smaller ones. Tomato plants can get pretty significant, up to six feet tall. That more extensive base can prevent your tomato plants from tipping over.

So, if you’re torn on how big your container must be for your tomatoes, size up.

Other Factors in Choosing a Garden Container

In addition to size, there are a few other things to consider when you grow in pots. For the ultimate guide on how to grow tomatoes in containers, click here. But here's a glimpse into other factors to consider with garden containers apart from their size.

Potting Mix

You can't fill your tomato planter with just any potting mix. It needs to be light for optimal drainage and aeration. It also needs to be dense with organic matter like manure compost. Tomatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from a nutrient-rich mix.

Drainage

Ensure your garden container has drainage holes in its base. Otherwise, plant roots wind up sitting in swampy soil.

The exception is self-irrigated planters (SIP). They store water in a reservoir, ensuring water is consistently available to plants. That ready moisture supply enhances plant health and vigor to produce better yields. It also minimizes the task of watering for you.

For example, EarthBox planter boxes use this self-watering feature. They're a favorite with container gardening enthusiasts, who rate them with a 4.9 score.

Garden Container Material

Various materials are available for tomato planters -- terracotta, fabric, wood, and plastic. Each has its pluses and minuses. But when in doubt, opt for a plastic garden container. They're lightweight, durable, and retain moisture well.

One caveat -- it's best to avoid black plastic containers. Tomatoes are sun-loving plants. Unfortunately, black containers absorb heat in a hot sun. That can damage plant roots and increase your watering frequency.

EarthBox: The Best Gardening Box for Container Tomatoes

You can remove the guesswork in selecting how small or how big a container for tomatoes using an EarthBox. It's the best container for growing tomatoes. Period.

First, you'll get a satisfaction guarantee.

Second, you'll get an all-inclusive solution with their tomato planter kit. It includes:

• Planter for Tomatoes
• Reversible weed covers
• Staking/Trellis System
• Soft-coated wire ties to secure plants to the Staking System
• 6 Casters/Wheels
• Fertilizer & Natural Dolomite
• Tomato & Veggie Boost
• Organic Potting Mix

Third, you'll have the confidence of knowing that thousands of gardeners use EarthBox boxes for gardening to ensure their success.