Sungold cherry tomatoes are a popular variety of tomato that is known for its sweet, juicy flavor and bright yellow color.
These tomatoes are easy to grow in containers, making them ideal for those with limited outdoor space or who live in an apartment or townhouse.
Container gardening also offers other benefits such as portability, ease of care, increased yield, and improved pest and disease control.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to grow Sungold cherry tomatoes in containers for the best results.
Advantages of Growing Sungold Cherry Tomatoes in Containers
When it comes to growing Sungold cherry tomatoes, there are many advantages to using containers.
First and foremost, they provide convenience—you don’t have to worry about tilling up soil or making sure your tomatoes are getting enough sunlight.
With containers, you can place your Sungolds wherever you please—whether it’s on your deck or patio—and they will still receive enough sun and moisture.
They also make harvesting easier because all of the fruits will be contained within one pot.
The Best Container for Growing Sungold Cherry Tomatoes
When it comes to selecting a container for your Sungolds, you want something that is at least 12 inches deep and has adequate drainage holes.
A 5-gallon container is ideal for one Sungold cherry tomato plant. If you have limited space, however, hanging baskets or other small containers are also suitable.
Size does matter
The size of container you choose will depend on the number of tomato plants you’d like to grow.
For one plant, a small 10-gallon container will do just fine. If you want to grow two or three plants, then opt for a larger 20-30 gallon container.
Remember that bigger is not always better, it’s important to choose a container size that will allow enough room for your plants to receive adequate sunlight.
For best results, choose a pot with drainage holes at the bottom so excess water can escape, as well as an attached saucer or tray to collect any overflow.
This will help ensure that your soil does not become overly saturated with water and cause root rot in your tomatoes.
Material Matters
When it comes to material, you have many options, from plastic pots to terracotta planters or even wooden barrels or boxes.
Plastic is lightweight and inexpensive but may not be suitable for outdoor use due to its tendency to crack in cold weather.
Terracotta is attractive but can also be quite fragile, however, some models come with protective coating which adds an extra layer of protection from cracking or chipping.
Wooden barrels look great but may require more maintenance due to their tendency to absorb moisture.
Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference when choosing what type of pot works best for your needs.
Selecting the Right Potting Mix for Growing Sungold Cherry Tomatoes
The perfect potting mix will help you cultivate a bumper crop of juicy, flavorful Sungolds. Let’s take a look at what you should consider when choosing the right potting mix for your Sungolds.
Consistency of the Potting Mix
The consistency of your potting mix is one of the most important factors in selecting the right one.
If it’s too loose, it won’t be able to retain enough moisture and nutrients, if it’s too dense, it won’t allow enough air flow and aeration.
Look for potting mixes that are light and fluffy but still have enough structure to hold its shape when squeezed.
This will help ensure maximum drainage and oxygen levels throughout the soil, which is essential for good plant health.
Nutrients in the Potting Mix
Another important factor is nutrients, since Sungold cherry tomatoes require plenty of them during their growth cycle, you want to make sure that your potting mix contains adequate amounts of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium).
Additionally, make sure that your potting mix has been tested by experts who can guarantee its safety—as well as its ability to provide healthy fruits.
pH Level
Finally, consider the pH level when selecting a potting mix for your Sungolds.
These tomatoes like neutral or slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6-7 (ideally 6.5).
Make sure that your chosen potting mix falls within this range so that your plants can absorb all the vital minerals they need from their environment.
The Best Location for Your Plants
Sungold tomatoes love lots of sun – at least 8 hours a day – and prefer full sun if possible.
They don’t mind a little shade during the hottest part of the day, but should not be planted in an area that gets less than 6 hours of sunlight each day.
That means that south-facing spots are usually best for sungolds, however, if you have an east or west-facing plot that gets plenty of direct sunlight throughout the day, then those can also work well.
Just make sure there is no large structure blocking any of the sun from hitting the plants directly.
Popular Sungold Varieties
How to Plant Your Seeds in the Container
Once you’ve chosen the perfect potting mix and location for your sungold tomatoes, it’s time to plant.
Fill the container with soil until it is about two-thirds full, then spread the seeds evenly on top of the soil. Cover them with a thin layer of additional soil, no more than 1/4 inch thick.
Water the soil until it is thoroughly saturated and keep it moist but not overly wet, as too much water can drown the seeds and prevent germination.
Keep the container in a warm area where it is protected from the cold, strong winds and heavy rain.
In a short time the seedlings will begin to emerge and as they develop you will be able to move the container to its final location.
Watering and feeding your tomato plants
Sungolds require about 1 inch of water each week during their growing season (which is usually from May through late October).
However, they do not like their roots sitting in wet soil so make sure you are not over-watering them and allowing them enough time to dry out between watering sessions.
Also make sure that any water you use on your plants is free from chlorine or other chemicals as this could harm your plants over time.
Feed them with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks and if you notice any signs of disease or pests, act quickly by applying organic treatments as soon as possible.
Support the Plants as They Grow
As your Sungolds grow, you will need to provide them with support.
Use trellises, stakes or cages for the tomato plants and attach them securely to the container or soil.
This will help keep the plants upright and also help prevent damage from strong winds or heavy rain.
Harvesting Your Cherry Tomatoes
Harvest Sungold tomatoes when they are fully ripe and still attached to the vine.
Be sure to leave some unripe fruits on the plants so that they can continue to produce more of this sweet and delicious variety of cherry tomato.
Once you’ve harvested all your tomatoes, enjoy them immediately or store them in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
Final Words
Growing Sungold tomatoes in containers is a great way to enjoy all the flavor and nutrition that this variety of cherry tomato has to offer.
By carefully selecting your potting mix, location and providing adequate water, feeding and support for the plants, you can ensure that you’ll have delicious fruits throughout the season.
