Tomato trailing 'Ola polka'

60 seeds

'Ola Polka' is a compact trailing cherry tomato variety that produces masses of small, bright yellow, sweet fruits. Its cascading growth habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets, containers, window boxes, balconies, patios, and raised planters. It is highly productive and performs well in the Gulf when grown during the cooler season.

Best Planting Time

• August to November (recommended)
• January to February (spring crop in mild Gulf areas)
• Avoid transplanting during the hottest summer months.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 4–6 hours to speed up germination.
• Use fresh, high-quality seeds.

Soil Preparation

Tomatoes grow best in fertile, loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Sandy garden soil
• 30% Well-rotted compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–6.8

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds in seed trays or small pots.
• Plant seeds 0.5–1 cm deep.
• Keep the soil evenly moist.
• Transplant seedlings when they have 4–6 true leaves (approximately 4–6 weeks old).

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 22–28°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 20–30°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• In late spring, provide light afternoon shade to reduce heat stress.

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist during germination.
• Water deeply whenever the top 2–3 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Water at the base of the plant.
• Avoid allowing containers to dry out completely, especially in warm weather.

Germination Time

• 5–10 days

Plant Spacing

• 35–45 cm between plants.
• If grown in containers or hanging baskets, plant one plant per 25–30 cm basket or pot.

Support

• Normally no staking is required.
• Allow stems to trail naturally over the edge of baskets or containers.

Harvest

• Harvest 60–75 days after transplanting.
• Pick fruits when they are fully golden-yellow and slightly firm.
• Harvest frequently to encourage continuous flowering and fruit production.

Fertilization

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• During flowering and fruiting, use fertilizer higher in potassium.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen to maintain heavy fruit production.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow during the cooler season.
• Water early in the morning.
• Apply mulch in larger containers to conserve moisture.
• Ensure good air circulation around plants.
• Monitor for whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, tomato fruitworm, powdery mildew, and blossom-end rot.
• 'Ola Polka' is excellent for hanging baskets, balconies, patios, rooftop gardens, window boxes, containers, and small home gardens throughout the Gulf.