The recommended spacing for planting tomato plants generally depends on the variety and growth habit (determinate vs. indeterminate), but here are the key guidelines:
- General spacing: Tomato plants should be spaced about 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) apart within a row, with rows spaced about 36 to 48 inches (90 to 120 cm) apart. This spacing allows for good air circulation, sunlight penetration, and nutrient access, which helps prevent diseases and promotes healthy growth
- Determinate tomatoes: These compact plants can be spaced about 2 to 2½ feet (60 to 75 cm) apart , with rows about 4 feet (1.2 m) apart
- Indeterminate tomatoes: These vining plants need more space. If staked, they can be spaced 1½ to 2 feet (45 to 60 cm) apart in rows, but if grown in cages or allowed to sprawl, spacing should be 2½ to 4 feet (75 to 120 cm) apart depending on training method
- Large vine or beefsteak tomatoes: Require more room, about 36 to 48 inches (90 to 120 cm) apart to accommodate their vigorous growth
- Cherry tomatoes: Typically spaced about 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) apart
- Raised beds: Tomatoes can be spaced slightly closer, around 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart , due to the compact growing environment
- Some growers experiment with closer spacing (less than 2 feet apart) to stress plants slightly and enhance fruit flavor, but closer spacing can increase disease risk and reduce airflow
- For best results, spacing tomatoes at least 2 feet apart is a common rule of thumb to ensure healthy plants and good yields
In summary, spacing tomato plants roughly 2 to 3 feet apart within rows and about 3 to 4 feet between rows is ideal for most varieties, with adjustments based on tomato type and growing method. Wider spacing (3.5 to 4.5 feet) can further reduce disease and improve plant vigor but uses more garden space
