How to Grow Tomatoes That Actually Taste Like Tomatoes

There’s nothing more disappointing than biting into a bland, store-bought tomato when your taste buds are expecting sweet, tangy perfection. If you’re dreaming of that rich, sun-ripened flavor that only a homegrown tomato can deliver, we’re here to help make that dream a reality.

At Manning’s Feed and Seed, we’re passionate about tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes. Whether you’re planting your first garden or refining your growing techniques, these tips will set you up for juicy, flavorful success.

1. Choose the Right Varieties

Flavor starts with the seed. Heirloom varieties and locally adapted types tend to offer the best taste. At Manning’s, we stock a selection of tomato plants that are ideal for our local growing conditions in Florida’s Zone 8b—so you don’t have to guess what will work best in your garden.

2. Plant in Healthy, Amended Soil

Tomatoes are heavy feeders, and they need nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Before planting, amend your soil with compost, worm castings, and a good tomato-specific fertilizer to give your plants a strong start.

Don’t forget: proper soil pH matters too—aim for a range between 6.0 and 6.8 for the best flavor development. If you need help prepping your soil, swing by the store and ask our team for soil amendments tailored to tomatoes.

3. Sun, Water, and Airflow

Tomatoes thrive in full sun—at least 6–8 hours of direct light each day. But it’s not just sunlight they need. Even, deep watering (preferably at the base of the plant) and good airflow help prevent diseases like blight and keep fruit development consistent.

Mulching around the base with straw or pine bark can help lock in moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

4. Prune and Support

To encourage healthy growth and better-tasting fruit, prune your tomato plants as they grow. Remove the “suckers” (small shoots between the main stem and branches), and make sure your plants are well-supported with cages or stakes.

This simple step channels the plant’s energy into growing fewer, but far better tomatoes.

5. Let Them Ripen on the Vine

The secret to amazing flavor? Patience. Let your tomatoes fully ripen on the vine whenever possible. The longer they stay on the plant, the more sugars they develop, which translates into that sweet, juicy bite we all love.

6. Click Here to Get Our Free Tomato Care Guide!

Want a printable version of all our top tips, plus a few extra tricks of the trade?

Click here to get our Tomato Care Guide — your go-to resource for growing flavorful, healthy tomatoes from seedling to harvest.

7. Stop by for Locally Grown Tomato Plants

Not ready to start from seed? We’ve got you covered. Manning’s Feed and Seed carries locally grown tomato plants that are already acclimated to our area and ready to thrive in your garden. Swing by and check out our current selection—we’re happy to help you choose the perfect plants for your space.

Growing tomatoes doesn’t have to be complicated—but growing great-tasting tomatoes takes a little care. With the right plants, a bit of guidance, and help from your local experts at Manning’s Feed and Seed, you’ll be slicing into garden-fresh tomatoes before you know it.

Got questions? Come see us—we’re always happy to help you grow something delicious.