Growing Compact Bonsai Tomato Plants in Containers

Growing Bonsai Tomato Plants

Bonsai tomato plants, also sometimes referred to as miniature tomato plants, are a unique and fun way to grow tomatoes. As the name suggests, bonsai tomatoes are tomato plants that are grown in containers and pruned and trained to remain small, much like traditional bonsai trees.

Benefits of Bonsai Tomatoes

There are several advantages to growing bonsai tomato plants rather than normal sized tomatoes:

• They take up less space - Bonsai tomatoes can be grown in pots on a patio or balcony, making them perfect for urban gardeners with limited space.
• Higher yields - Since bonsai tomato plants are small and concentrate their energy into a smaller area, they can sometimes produce more tomatoes per square foot than regular plants.
• Easier maintenance - The compact size of bonsai tomatoes makes them easier to stake and tie up, prune, and harvest.
• Fun conversation piece - The novelty of the mini tomatoes is an enjoyable talking point for gardeners.

Selecting Bonsai Tomato Varieties

While any tomato variety can be turned into a bonsai tomato with proper pruning and training, some varieties are naturally better suited for container growing and producing smaller fruit. Here are some top varieties to consider:

• Red Robin - One of the most popular varieties for bonsai culture. Produces loads of bright red, bite-sized cherry tomatoes.
• Tiny Tim - An early variety that bears small, red fruit. It's one of the best determinate tomatoes for bonsai.
• Patio - A compact indeterminate variety with medium-sized red fruit. Good for small spaces.
• Small Fry - Very compact indeterminate that produces clusters of sweet, grape-sized fruits.

How to Grow Bonsai Tomato Plants

Growing bonsai tomatoes requires many of the same care requirements as regular tomato plants, along with some pruning and training techniques to keep them miniature.

Planting Bonsai Tomatoes

Fill a 12 inch or smaller container with a quality potting mix. Amend it with compost or fertilizer according to package directions. Sow seeds 1⁄4 inch deep, water gently, and place in a warm, sunny area. Thin or transplant seedlings to final spacing.

Caring for Bonsai Tomatoes

• Water 1-2 inches per week, allowing pots to dry slightly between waterings.
• Use a soluble fertilizer every 2 weeks during the growing season.
• Prune back leggy growth and side shoots to the third set of leaves.
• Pinch out new suckers as they appear in leaf axils.
• Tie main stem to bamboo stake for support.
• Place pot in warm area with at least 6 hours of sunlight.
• Continue pruning and training to keep plant small and let light penetrate.

Overwintering Bonsai Tomatoes

As annuals, tomato plants usually die off in winter. To keep a bonsai tomato plant going year after year, it must be moved indoors before first frost. When bringing it inside:

• Prune plant by 1/3 to compensate for reduced light conditions.
• Remove yellow or dead leaves and treat for any pests if needed.
• Place in south facing window or under grow lights providing 12-16 hours of supplementary light.
• Water sparingly so soil remains just slightly moist.
• Stop fertilizing until spring.
• Move plant back outside after the final frost date next season.

Tips for Success with Bonsai Tomatoes

Follow these pro tips and watch your miniature tomato plants flourish:

Prune Frequently

Pruning keeps bonsai tomatoes small through redirecting the plant’s energies. Prune suckers weekly along with leggy stems or wayward branches.

Use the Right Container

Shallow pots 12 inches across expose more roots to heat and air pruning, limiting growth. Add drainage holes and use a lightweight bonsai mix.

Consider Double Planting

Plant a quick-growing variety alongside a late season one. Harvest the early variety then give the late bloomer more room to take off.

Stake Stems

Add bamboo sticks near seedlings. Tie stems loosely in place as they grow. This prevents flopping and keeps fruit higher off the soil.

Rotate Pot

Turn pots every few days so all sides get even sunlight exposure. This prevents leaning toward light.

Have fun experimenting with bonsai tomato plants! Their petite size and abundant fruits add charm and harvests to gardens and patios. With some practice at pruning and training, they make a unique addition to any yard.

FAQs

What are some good compact tomato varieties for bonsai culture?

Some top picks are Red Robin, Tiny Tim, Patio, and Small Fry. These naturally grow short and produce smaller fruits that suit bonsai-sized plants.

Should I prune and train bonsai tomato seedlings?

Yes, begin pruning and training bonsai tomatoes early on. Pinch suckers weekly and prune leggy growth or side shoots to the third set of leaves. This redirects energy into fruiting.

How often do I need to water bonsai tomatoes?

Water container grown bonsai tomatoes about 1-2 inches per week. Check soil moisture daily and water when the top inch becomes dry. Prevent both over and under watering for best growth.

What size container should I use?

Choose containers 12 inches or less in diameter and width. Shallow pots help limit plant size by allowing roots more access to heat, air pruning, and drying. Good drainage is also key.