Tomato 'Tumbling Tom'

Solanum lycopersicum

How to grow Tomato 'Tumbling Tom'

  • Full Sun

  • Medium

These plants are best for growing in containers where they can hang down over the rim, they do not have an upright habit once they reach a certain size.

Most of the fruit is formed on sucker growth so these plants should not be pruned.

The leaves from the original part of the plant start to curl as they get older and will turn yellow and die eventually. It is OK to remove the curled leaves if they become too unsightly and clear any dead growth from around the plant.

Plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Tumbling Tom is generally regarded as a tender plant, so remember to ensure that temperatures are mild before moving outdoors. Tumbling Tom needs a loamy soil with a ph of 5.0 to 6.0 (moderately acidic soil to weakly acidic soil).

Growing Tumbling Tom from seed

Start seeds indoors six weeks before last frost date.

Aim to sow 0.78 inches (2.0 cm) deep and try to ensure a gap of at least 5.85 inches (15.0 cm). For optimal germination, soil temperature should be a minimum of 13°C / 55°F.

By our calculations, you should look at sowing Tumbling Tom about 42 days before your last frost date.

Transplanting Tumbling Tom

Transplant out when around 15cm (6 inches) high.

Start seeds indoors 5 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant outdoors when danger of frost is past and night temperatures consistently remain above 8°C. If an unexpected late frost is forecast, protect young plants with plastic sheeting or other cover, or bring them inside.

Plant to the first set of true leaves to promote strong root growth.

Tumbling Tom is tender, so ensure you wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area before considering planting outside.

Harvesting Tumbling Tom

This variety tends to mature and be ready for harvest in mid summer.

Other Names for Tomato 'Tumbling Tom'

Tumbling Tom Tomatoes, Tommy Tumbler