Tomato PKM-1 is a popular desi variety known for good yield, medium-sized fruits, and tolerance to heat and disease. Growing PKM-1 tomatoes from seeds is very doable if you set it up right. Here's your complete guide:
Container
Size: At least 12–15 inches deep and wide.
Material: Plastic pots, terracotta pots, grow bags (15–20 liters) — anything with good drainage holes.
Sowing the Seeds
Best season = September to February (mild to cooler months).
Can sow year-round in Southern India with some shading in peak summer.
Start seeds in a seed tray.
Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep.
Keep soil moist but not soggy.
Place in a warm, bright place, indirect sunlight until seeds germinate.
Germination: 6–10 days.
Transplanting
Once seedlings are 4–6 inches tall with 2–3 sets of true leaves:
Transplant them into the large final containers.
Bury the stem deeper up to the first leaves (tomatoes grow roots from the stem = stronger plants).
Soil Mix
Use a nutrient-rich and well-draining soil:
40% garden soil
30% organic compost (cow dung compost/vermicompost)
20% cocopeat
10% sand or perlite for drainage
Sunlight
Needs 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
More sun = more fruits = tastier tomatoes! 🌞
Watering
Water deeply but less frequently.
Let the topsoil dry slightly before watering again.
Avoid splashing water on leaves (prevents fungal diseases).
Fertilizing
After 2 weeks of transplanting: Start feeding with balanced organic liquid fertilizer (like compost tea or diluted fish emulsion).
Once flowering starts: Give phosphorus-rich fertilizer (bone meal or NPK 5-10-10) every 15–20 days.
During fruiting: Add a little potassium for better fruit size and taste.
Staking / Support
PKM-1 is semi-determinate (moderate height) but staking helps.
Use bamboo sticks, tomato cages, or trellis for support.
Pests & Diseases
Common pests: Aphids, whiteflies, fruit borers.
Weekly spray of neem oil solution.
Inspect leaves for any early signs.
Fungal issues: Keep good airflow around plants, water at the base.
Harvesting
Ready in about 70–85 days after sowing.
Pick tomatoes when they turn full red and are slightly firm to touch.
Frequent harvesting encourages new fruits.