How to Grow Tomatoes Horizontally

Dig a trench that is approximately 4 to 6 inches deep and large enough to accommodate the tomato plants. According to the National Gardening Association, each growing tomato plant requires at least 10 to 24 inches of space to ensure the plants don’t become overcrowded.

Remove the tomato seedling carefully from its plastic container. Gently work your gloved fingers through the root ball to remove the excess soil and pull off any yellowed or damaged leaves.

Lay the tomato seedling gently inside the trench. Hold the end of the seedling with one hand and gently back-fill the trench with the other, leaving approximately 1 to 2 inches of the seedling exposed above the soil. Set a rock or create a small mound of soil under the seedling to prop it up.

Place all of the seedlings in the trench in the same manner until they are properly planted and spaced. Provide all of the seedlings with a healthy drink of water or enough to saturate the soil with 6 inches of moisture.

Cover the plants with a 1-inch layer of mulch, being careful to avoid covering the growing seedlings. The mulch protects the seedlings while holding in moisture.

Place a tomato cage over each seedling to protect it against nuisance animals and provide the growing plant with support.

Give your growing tomato plants at least a 6- to 8-inch layer of water twice a week.