1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a location receiving at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant deeply in fertile, well-draining soil, leaving 24–36 inches between plants, and provide a strong cage or trellis at planting time.

2. Watering: Water deeply and consistently, providing about 1–2 inches per week depending on heat and rainfall. Water at the base to keep foliage dry, and use mulch to retain moisture and reduce fluctuations that can affect fruit quality.

3. Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged lower leaves to improve airflow. Lightly prune excess suckers if needed to manage growth, but avoid heavy pruning because the foliage helps protect ripening fruit from sunscald.

4. Fertilizing: Mix compost into the soil before planting. Once flowering begins, apply a balanced or tomato-specific fertilizer according to label directions, avoiding excess nitrogen that can encourage leafy growth at the expense of fruit.