Pink Ponderosa TomatoesPhoto byGin Lee

A Guide to Growing Pink Ponderosa Tomatoes in Containers Inside a Greenhouse

We are currently in the middle of July, and it is an opportune time to plant tomatoes in the southern region. From mid-July to the end of August, it is considered an ideal time to plant fall tomatoes. The cooler temperatures during this period can aid in fruit sets and help reduce insect-related issues.

Choosing the Right Container

When growing Pink Ponderosa tomatoes in a greenhouse, it's important to choose the right container. Look for a container that is at least 5 gallons in size and has drainage holes at the bottom. This will ensure that your tomatoes have enough room to grow and that excess water can easily drain out.

Preparing the soil

Before planting your Pink Ponderosa tomatoes, make sure to prepare the soil properly. Use high-quality soil that is rich in nutrients and has good drainage. 

To enhance the growth of your tomatoes, consider incorporating organic compost or fertilizer for an added boost. For a natural fertilizer option, I recommend utilizing coffee grounds, tea grounds, and crushed eggshells.

Planting Your Tomatoes

When planting your Pink Ponderosa tomatoes, make sure to bury the roots deep in the soil. This will help the plants establish a strong root system and help them grow healthier and stronger. Water the plants thoroughly after planting to help them settle in.

Caring for Your Tomatoes

Make sure to water your Pink Ponderosa tomatoes regularly, especially during hot weather. They will need consistent moisture to thrive, so make sure to check the soil regularly and water as needed. You can also add a layer of dried leaf litter or mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture.

Tomatoes thrive in temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees. However, during the summer months in the southern regions, it is not uncommon for temperatures to soar into the 90s and even reach the 100s. Prolonged exposure to such extreme heat can cause certain types of tomato plants to drop their blooms and cease fruit production. Pink Ponderosa is considered to be heat-tolerant. 

To mitigate the effects of excessive heat waves, it is advisable to utilize shade cloths on the exterior of greenhouses. This simple measure can help regulate the temperature inside the greenhouse and protect tomato plants from the detrimental effects of prolonged high temperatures.

To ensure that your tomato plants produce fruit, gently shake your plants to ensure pollination. You can also use a small make-up brush or soft bristle toothbrush to help pollinate the blooms by gently brushing over them.

Growing Pink Ponderosa tomatoes in containers inside a greenhouse.Photo byGin Lee

Harvesting your tomatoes

Once your Pink Ponderosa tomatoes start to ripen, you can start harvesting them. Simply twist the tomatoes off the vine when they are fully ripe and enjoy them fresh or use them in your favorite recipes. Remember to pick the tomatoes regularly to encourage more fruit to grow.

One other valuable tip is to save your own seeds each year for planting in the following season. It has been suggested that by acclimating plants to your specific climate over multiple generations, yields can be improved. I am currently experimenting with this method in my own gardens.