Use the best seed starting mix you can get not plotting soil, not topsoil, only the best soil-less seed starting mix. Start the seed about 5 to 8 week before you plan to transplant outdoors. Thoroughly moisten the seed start mix and place it in a tray. Plant seed in the mix and cover with a plastic bag with the end propped open for a little air circulation. Place the tray in a warm spot such as on top of a TV. etc. or use a heating mat to get 70-85 degrees F. The minute you see the first seedling germinating, remove the bag and place the tray under grow light for 16 hours/day. Keep the temperature between 50 -85 degrees F. When the first leaves on the seedlings are about ½ inch long, transplant them into individual cells or pots. Bury them up nearly to the leaves so the stem can root, then place it back under a grow light and let it develop. Apply 2 feedings of 1 level teaspoon of 15-30-15 to a gallon of water.
The perfect planting day is a cloudy or overcast. If you must plant when it is sunny, do it early or later in the day so that the seedlings aren’t as stressed by the strong light. Place tomato plant 24”-30” apart, allow 5 to 6 feet between rows to allow room for plants and room for you to move weed, water, fertilize and pick. Dig a hole twice as big as the plant’s root ball. Use one hole for every tomato plant. Dig a