basement tomatoes?

Question

is it econimical to grow tomatoes in my basement over the winter in NJ....I would probably need to purchase a kind of lamp but i dont know what kind...i imagine i would also need to maintain a temperature.in order for them to grow...are these cost prohibitive conditions?

Answer 1

A good way to start is with a 48" flourescent shop light. Since tomatoes need a lot of light I'd recommend grow lights instead of standard flourescent lights. The plants get more energy from the grow lights than they do from the same watt standard light. Put the lights on chains from the ceiling about 1 foot from the tops of the plants. As they grow raise the lights to keep them 1 foot from the tops.

Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not overwater. You can use a liquid fert like Miracle Grow once or twice a month.

When they get flowers there will be no insects to pollinate them so self-pollinate them or if you have some Tomato Blossom Set spray them with that according to label instructions.

As long as they get the light you should be OK.

Answer 2

Start small and work your way up to the basement victory garden! I think it's a great idea.....hmmm, another use for hydroponics...LOL

Answer 3

I recommend purchasing a daylight lightbulb which simulates daylight.