(Credit: Penn State Ag Sciences)
Penn State Extension will offer “Tomato Growing Basics: A Guide to Successful Harvests,” a self-paced online course designed for gardeners of all skill levels looking to grow tomatoes.
Participants will learn how to grow healthy, productive tomato plants from seed to harvest. Through videos and step-by-step guides, attendees will explore weather conditions, soil health, seed starting, transplanting, mulching, plant care and pruning.
Participants also will learn how to diagnose and manage common tomato diseases, pests and environmental stresses using practical, research-based techniques rooted in integrated pest management.
Among other topics, the course will cover selecting an ideal site; preparing soil for growing tomatoes; starting tomato seeds; transplanting seedlings; planting using proven techniques for healthy growth; and supporting healthy tomato plant growth through watering, pruning and trellising.
Attendees also can learn how to handle and store harvested tomatoes; save seeds for future plantings; and prepare for the following garden year.
Pesticide applicators who complete the course may earn one pesticide recertification credit from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture in category 3, category 18 or private category. Pesticide recertification credits are available to those individuals who hold a Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture pesticide license.
The course registration fee is $29.25.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website.
