Perfect Planting: Tomato Spacing Quiz Quiz

Learn key facts about optimal tomato plant spacing, row setup, and related horticultural practices to ensure healthy growth and bountiful harvests.

1. Ideal Distance Between Tomato Plants

   What is the generally recommended distance between individual tomato plants when planting in the ground for good airflow and growth?

   1. 5–10 cm (2–4 inches)
   2. 100–120 cm (39–47 inches)
   3. 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
   4. 45–60 cm (18–24 inches)

   Explanation: Spacing tomato plants 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart allows for proper air circulation and reduces disease risk. 15–20 cm is far too close, leading to crowding. 100–120 cm wastes space and is usually unnecessary. 5–10 cm is much too close for healthy development.

2. Row Spacing for Tomatoes

   When planting multiple rows of tomatoes, what is an appropriate spacing between rows to allow maintenance and plant development?

   1. 90–120 cm (36–48 inches)
   2. 60–65 cm (24–26 inches)
   3. 150–180 cm (59–71 inches)
   4. 20–30 cm (8–12 inches)

   Explanation: Row spacing of 90–120 cm provides enough space for access, airflow, and growth. 20–30 cm is too tight, while 150–180 cm wastes garden area except for very large varieties. 60–65 cm may be insufficient for mature plants.

3. Spacing Impacts Disease Risk

   How does overcrowding tomato plants by reducing spacing affect plant health?

   1. Increases disease risk due to poor airflow
   2. Reduces the need for watering
   3. Makes plants more resistant to pests
   4. Boosts fruit yield due to closer planting

   Explanation: Poor spacing leads to limited airflow, making conditions favorable for diseases like blight. Closer planting does not boost yield; it often reduces it. Watering needs do not decrease with closeness, and pest resistance is not improved by overcrowding.

4. Determinate vs. Indeterminate Varieties

   Which tomato type often requires slightly wider spacing due to larger plant size and extended growth?

   1. Grape tomatoes
   2. Indeterminate tomatoes
   3. Cherry tomatoes
   4. Determinate tomatoes

   Explanation: Indeterminate tomatoes grow and produce over a longer season and usually grow larger, needing more space. Determinate types are bushier and smaller. Cherry and grape tomatoes refer to fruit types but may be either determinate or indeterminate.

5. Container Tomato Spacing

   If growing tomatoes in containers, what is the typical recommendation for number of tomato plants per standard-sized pot (at least 18 inches wide)?

   1. One plant per pot
   2. Three plants per pot
   3. Four plants per pot
   4. Two plants per pot

   Explanation: One plant per container is advised for healthy root growth and enough nutrients. Two or more per pot causes competition, leading to stunted plants and higher disease risk. Four per pot would crowd the roots considerably.