Tomato plants, in general, need six to eight hours of direct, bright sunlight per day for healthy growth. Some varieties may be grown in lower levels, but they need as much light as possible because they are dense. Water, nutrients, and pruning are also all essential for maintaining healthy, fruiting tomato plants. Growing great tomato plants starts with understanding their ideal conditions. From growing them in pots versus in the ground, to ensuring they have the right fertilizer and soil, there's a lot to consider. Add to the list: direct or indirect sunlight. For tomatoes to really grow their best, and not get scorched or become leggy, they need the perfect amount of light in your garden. So we turned to gardening pros to find out whether tomatoes should be grown in direct or indirect sunlight for your best crop this season. Direct vs. Indirect Light: What Do Tomatoes Need? According to Kathi Rogers, writer and gardener at Oak Hill Homestead, tomatoes need six to eight hours of full, direct sunlight. "Sunlight is essential for photosynethesis, which is how tomato plants convert sunlight into energy to grow and and produce fruit (the tomatoes)," she says. "The plants use the sun's energy to grow deep roots, strong stems, leaves, and flowers and fruit." Lindsay Springer, Director of Plants, Nutrition, and Digital Agriculture at Gardyn, agrees, and says that eight hours of direct sunlight "will yield excellent plant growth, flowering, and fruit." "The UV spectrum of light is essential to sync the balance of sugar and flavor ripening processes—along with the development of healthy antioxidants," she says. Can You Grow Tomatoes in Indirect or Lower Light? In general, all tomato varieties should be grown in direct sunlight, and that is a basic requirement for the plant. However, Steven Corcoran, CEO of Lawn Love, says there may be a small handful of exceptions—with some caveats. "There are some variations that may be able to tolerate a bit more indirect light or shade than others, like cherry or Mama Leone tomatoes, but generally tomatoes like direct sun," Corcoran says. "These plants simply need that direct sunlight to thrive." Corcoran says that, because tomato plants can become dense as they grow, it's important to provide them with as much sunlight as possible to ensure enough filters through to the plant. "It definitely helps to prune them a little bit and provide them with support to allow more sunlight to filter in," he says. More Tomato Growing Tips Springer also had some other essential tips for growing your healthiest tomato plants this season: Tomato plants are heavy feeders, and will require lots of water and nutrients during their flowering and fruiting phases, Springer says. If you don't have an outdoor space, or don't have enough sunlight, Springer recommends using grow lights (which can even be used year-round indoors). To reduce the risk of disease, "water your plants at the base of the stem, not overhead on the foliage," Springer says. Prune branches that are rubbing against each other, are low to the ground, or have leaves that are turning brown, to ensure healthy airflow, Springer says.

Thyme is an easy-growing, Mediterranean evergreen shrub that is generally low maintenance, thriving in sun conditions. It's drought tolerant and comes back every year. But it does have one quirk—you have to harvest thyme correctly if you want it to thrive rather than die. It needs to be harvested regularly to keep its woody growth from taking over but, if you chop off too much, you risk damaging or killing the plant. Want to know how to get it exactly right? Here's how to harvest thyme, when to do it, and exactly how much to take. When to Harvest Thyme A quick harvest for just a few sprigs for a recipe doesn't need to be carefully timed. If you need it, take it. However, if you plan on harvesting more of the plant, then it's best to do that during the growing season, which typically runs from spring through early summer. You can also harvest before winter's cooler temperatures begin to set in. Try to harvest in the morning, which is when thyme's flavors are their strongest. If left to its own devices, thyme can become woody or it can flower, which can negatively impact the flavor of the herb. Harvesting thyme prevents woody growth, encourages more stems to fill in, and keeps the flavor of the thyme fresh and herbal. Want more gardening tips? Sign up for our free gardening newsletter for our best-growing tips, troubleshooting hacks, and more! How to Harvest Thyme The first step in any harvest is to grab a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears or scissors and focus on the top of the plant. Carefully cut off a sprig either at the soil or above a leaf node. If your goal is to harvest thyme for culinary use, avoid the woody stems, which don't have the same flavor as the younger leaves. You should always be judicious in how much you take from a thyme plant. Too much, and you could damage or even kill the plant. Not enough, and you're not giving the plant an opportunity to fill out and grow to its full potential. You can take the more mature stems in order to help you shape the plant, but remember to leave enough that the plant is able to recover and grow back. Tip Drying thyme? Bundle the sprigs as you go, aiming for 40 sprigs in each bundle. How Much Thyme Should You Harvest? Harvesting thyme could mean a small cut or a big cut. You could trim off just a few stems, or you could cut off the entire top of the plant for a major harvest. For a significant harvest, you can trim up to half the plant, starting with the leaves on top, which should prevent the plant from blooming. Don't be shy in your cuts, but be sure to leave enough woody stems on the bottom for the plant to regrow. There should also be green leaves remaining after you've completed the harvest. How to Store Thyme If you're tempted to use up all of your fragrant thyme right away, go for it—thyme is most flavorful immediately after harvesting. As it sits for longer, its flavorful oils begin to fade away. That doesn't necessarily mean you can't use it, however, it won't have the same oomph. Here are four ways to store thyme. Store Thyme in a Damp Paper Towel in the Fridge If you don't plan on using it in the first few days and need to buy yourself some time, resist the urge to take the leaves off the stem. Storing it all in one piece helps maintain the flavor, especially if you put them inside a plastic bag, wrapped in a damp paper towel. This should keep your thyme for up to two weeks. Put Thyme in a Glass of Water Because thyme can be propagated in water, it makes sense that you can also keep it in the fridge in small glass of water (don't forget to regularly change the water). While the thyme won't continue to grow, it will stay perky for up to a few months. Freeze Cubes of Thyme Thyme can also be kept in the freezer for use in a pinch in a soup or sauce. Chop it up finely, then put it in an ice cube tray with a thin layer of water on top. Wait until the cubes freeze, then pop them out to throw in your next chicken soup. Dry Thyme Your last option is also the longest-lasting. You can dry thyme to use exactly as you'd use dried thyme from the grocery store. Hang bunches of thyme upside down in a dark closet for two weeks. Once it's dried, store the full bunches in a resealable bag, and break the leaves off the stems when you're ready to use it. Tip Short on time? You can also dry thyme by putting it in a dehydrator or in the oven at 170 degrees Fahrenheit, with the door slightly ajar. Check the thyme regularly. When it crumbles in your fingers, it's ready. Harvesting vs. Pruning Thyme: What's the Difference? While harvesting and pruning thyme both involve cutting back the plant, they are not the same. Harvesting and pruning have both different goals and approaches, though both will prevent the plant from becoming too woody. With harvesting, you're cutting the plant at the ideal time in its growth to enhance the flavor of the stems you're gathering. This is typically done in the spring or summer and, ideally, thyme is harvested before it blooms. With pruning, you just want to make sure to trim the plant before winter to give it time to recover. You can prune thyme after it has bloomed—at this point, the flavor doesn't typically matter. This is being done for the health of the plant and making sure that it comes back next year, ready to produce a new crop.

Tomatoes come in two varieties: determinate (bushy) and nondeterminate (vining). Determinate tomatoes do better in containers while nondeterminate tomatoes grow better in the ground. Containers are better for deterring pests, while plants in the ground will need less frequent watering. Tomatoes are a staple in nearly every vegetable garden: they’re easy to grow, provide bountiful yields, can be grown in pots and the ground, and there are endless varieties to choose from. And one of the best parts about growing tomatoes is how versatile they are. From sprawling vegetable gardens to tiny patio gardens, tomatoes can withstand various growing conditions. However, is one method of growing inherently better than the other? Is growing tomatoes in the ground better than growing them in containers? We turned to the gardening pros for a definitive answer. Tomato Growing Basics While beginner-friendly and easy to grow, tomatoes require consistent maintenance and care for the most successful and fruitful yield. A basic understanding of how tomatoes grow and the different varieties available is the first step in any gardener’s toolbox. “Most people don’t realize that tomatoes come in two varieties—determinate (bushy) and indeterminate (vining)—and knowing the difference is key to planting success,” says Sarah Rubens, garden coach and founder of Seed to Sanctuary. Determinate tomato varieties, such as ‘Celebrity,’ ‘San Marzano Nano,’ ‘Amish Paste,’ and ‘Marglobe’ (among others), have a short harvest season with fruit ripening all at once. In contrast, indeterminate varieties, such as ‘Beefsteak,’ ‘Big Boy,’ ‘Sungold,’ and ‘Sweet Million,’ (among others) provide a steady supply of ripe fruit throughout most of the growing season until the first frost kills off the plants. In general, determinate varieties are considered lower-yield and lower-maintenance, while indeterminate varieties provide higher yields but require more maintenance. Regardless of the variety, all tomato plants require plenty of water, regular fertilization, and pruning (although indeterminate tomatoes need more pruning than determinate). Which Is Better: Containers or the Garden? The garden may seem like the most obvious answer; more space means healthier plants, right? As it turns out, the answer isn’t necessarily that simple. Several factors influence the best way to grow your tomatoes, including the variety you’re growing and your gardening habits. As a general rule, determinate tomatoes are best suited to container growing because they are smaller and more manageable. In contrast, indeterminate tomatoes are better suited for planting directly in the ground since they require robust staking and support as they grow. This includes many heirloom and cherry varieties. Your gardening habits and the space you have available also play a role. For example, container gardens and pots can be easier to maintain regularly, while in-ground tomatoes may get more easily forgotten at the back of your yard. Both Rubens and Tammy Sons, CEO and founder of TN Nursery, agree that, in general, they prefer container growing for tomatoes over planting directly in the ground. “My experience growing tomatoes shows that both ground planting and container gardening have their own unique benefits," Sons says. "The convenience of containers appeals to me because they can be moved when the weather changes and serve as a defense against pests. There's no better feeling than standing on the porch and taking a sun-warmed tomato from a door-side pot." For more prolific indeterminate varieties, Rubens says that raised beds are her go-to. A raised bed offers sturdier support for stakes and arches that may be required for these vining varieties. Furthermore, planting in raised beds versus directly in the ground provides better soil control and monitoring. This includes monitoring moisture and drainage levels, preventing soilborne diseases, and regular fertilization. “A 17-inch-deep raised bed accommodates a strong structure, such as a securely anchored arch, allowing vines to spread and maximize yield,” Rubens says. Benefits of Growing Tomatoes in Containers While determinate varieties are better-suited to container growing, indeterminate varieties can be grown in containers too. Sons and Rubens include raised garden beds in this category. Container growing tomatoes offers several benefits which may be enticing to gardeners. These include: Better soil control (including drainage, prevention of soilborne diseases, etc.). Containers can be easily moved (to follow the sun or protect plants from adverse weather). Plants are more easily accessible on the patio or deck. Plants can be protected from pests. Pots and containers are more space-efficient. Benefits of Growing Tomatoes in the Ground Growing tomatoes directly in the ground is also a viable option, regardless of the variety. The following benefits may entice gardeners interested in planting their tomatoes in the ground: Plants require less frequent watering. Supports such as stakes and arches can be firmly anchored. It may be easier to set up drip irrigation systems for watering. There’s endless space for roots to spread, which is particularly beneficial for large heirloom varieties. Plants will likely produce larger yields since they have more space to grow.

Anticipation is likely one of the reasons it seems to take forever for your tomatoes to turn red. Dozens of varieties exist and tomatoes are fairly easy to grow, but it's the fresh, juicy taste and texture that make tomatoes the most popular crop grown in home gardens across the United States.1 Waiting for them to ripen to perfect red can seem endless, but besides anticipation there are several non emotion-based reasons for why your tomatoes are still green. Here are some of the most common reasons why your tomatoes aren't turning red, plus what you can do to speed up the ripening process. Temperature Too Hot or Too Cold Temperature is one of the bigger factors for ripening tomatoes and a few degrees too hot or too cold puts the process on hold or even stops ripening altogether. The ideal temperature tomatoes need to acquire their red color is 68 to 77 degrees F.2 At 85 degrees, the production of lycopene ceases leaving large green fruits on the vine until temperatures lower to more better levels. Temperatures consistently below 60 degrees F. also inhibit ripening. Fruits that are fully mature and have a slight blush can be harvested and brought indoors to finish ripening. They do not need to sit in a sunny window as long as the correct temperature is provided. Too Much Direct Sunlight Even though it might seem counterintuitive, too much sun exposure can slow down ripening. The heat is more important than light for ripening, and too much bright, hot, direct sunlight can raise temperatures to levels that inhibit lycopene production. Pruning leaves away from mature tomatoes to give them more sun exposure can also cause sunscald and cracking. Too Much Water Tomato plants need 1 to 2 inches of water per week when vines are actively growing and producing fruit. But once fruits reach their mature size, ripening occurs more quickly if irrigation is reduced or even stopped completely. Less water stresses the tomato plant and sends it into survival mode. The plant will focus energy into producing viable seed, which helps accelerate ripening. Insufficient Nutrients Tomatoes require a lot of nutrients and micronutrients throughout the growing season. Phosphorous and potassium are particularly important for the production and synthesis of lycopene in the fruits. Insufficient amounts can cause slow or uneven ripening. When the first small fruits appear on the plant, feed with a fertilizer higher in phosphorous such as and NPK 5-10-5. Too Much Nitrogen Tomato plants benefit from an application of balanced fertilizer such as an NPK 10-10-10 early in the season. This supports vine and foliage growth and encourages good root development and flower production. Once mature fruits are on the vine, fertilizing with a product that contains too much nitrogen can take away from ripening by refocusing energy on foliage growth. Once green fruits have reached a fully mature size, withhold fertilizer and allow the natural processes of ripening to take place in the fruit. Lack of Pruning Limiting the number of vines on a plant by removing early suckers is another way to focus energy into the production and ripening of fruit. Not every vine produces fruit and plants with unproductive vines or vines overloaded with fruit will struggle. This is especially true for determinate type tomato plants that produce many fruits all at the same time. Early pruning of your tomato plants results in higher quality fruit that ripens more easily and quickly. It's Not Supposed to Be Red It's important to understand, starting out, what your tomato type will look like when fully ripe. Many varieties ripen to different shades of red or may be orange, pink, purple and even striped. If you're waiting for your tomato to turn red, make sure that's the color it's supposed to be when it's ready to pick. Check your seed package for how many days to harvest for the tomato variety you've chosen. Some varieties need more or less growing time and may not work as well in your climate.