A Proven Tomato Planting Technique from Gasper Owner, Robert Gasper

If you’re looking for how to grow bigger, healthier tomato plants, one simple technique can make a dramatic difference: planting your tomatoes deep.

While most gardening advice tells you to plant at the same depth as the nursery pot, tomatoes are the exception—and taking advantage of this unique trait can lead to stronger plants, higher yields, and better drought resistance.

Why You Should Plant Tomatoes Deep

Tomato plants have a special ability that sets them apart from other vegetables:
They can grow roots all along their stems.

By burying up to two-thirds of the plant, you encourage the stem to develop additional roots underground.

This creates:

A larger, stronger root system
Increased water and nutrient absorption
Improved stability and plant vigor
Greater resistance to heat and drought stress

The result? More robust plants and bigger tomato harvests.

Illustration showing how to plant tomatoes deep to promote stronger root growth, drought tolerance, and more fruit.

How to Plant Tomatoes Deep (Step-by-Step)

1. Dig a deep hole or trench

Make it deep enough to bury up to two-thirds of the plant.

2. Remove lower leaves

Strip leaves from the bottom portion of the stem that will be underground.

3. Lay or position the plant

You can plant vertically or lay the plant sideways in a trench, gently curving the top upward.

4. Backfill with enriched soil

Cover the stem completely, leaving only the top portion exposed.

5. Water thoroughly

Help roots establish quickly with a deep initial watering.

Boost Tomato Growth with Soil Enrichment

To get the best results from deep planting, start with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. At Gasper Home & Garden Center, we recommend mixing in:

Organic soil builder like Bumper Crop Organic Soil Builder to improve soil structure and fertility
A gentle, organic fertilizer such as Dr. Earth Home Grown Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer to promote steady, healthy growth
Sand (if needed) to improve drainage, especially in heavier soils

This combination helps your expanded root system thrive, fueling vigorous growth all season long.

Tomato plant in a tomato cage with plant supports

Don’t Forget Support: Tomato Cages & Stakes

As your plants grow larger and produce more fruit, proper support is essential. Using sturdy Tomato Cages & Plant Supports Collection helps:

Prevent branches from breaking
Improve air circulation
Keep fruit clean and off the ground
Make harvesting easier

Install supports early to avoid disturbing roots later.

Shop Tomato Cages & Plant Supports

Prevent Weeds with Landscape Fabric

After planting, cover exposed soil with black landscape fabric to save time and reduce maintenance.

Using Landscape Fabric helps:

Block weed growth
Retain soil moisture
Keep your garden neat and manageable

Secure it with pins and cut openings where your plants are placed.

Shop Landscape Fabrics

Why This Method Works

When you combine:

Deep planting
Rich, organic soil
Proper fertilization
Weed prevention
Strong plant support

…you create the ideal environment for high-yield tomato plants.

This technique is especially valuable for gardeners in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic, where summer heat and inconsistent rainfall can stress plants.

Try It in Your Garden This Season

This simple adjustment to your planting method can make a noticeable difference in your results. If you’ve never tried deep planting tomatoes before, this is the year to experiment.

Stop by Gasper Home & Garden Center or shop online for everything you need to grow your best tomato crop yet.