• The soil should be free draining and rich in organic matter.
• Tomatoes can be produced on a variety of soil types.
• Deep, medium textured (loamy), fertile and well-drained soils. Avoid sites that tend to stay wet for prolonged periods.
• Select sites that have good air movement (to reduce disease) and that are free from perennial weeds.

Plough deeply and incorporate 5 to 10 kg of compost or khola manure per square metre. Make beds 120 cm wide and to a convenient length. The beds should be 20 to 25 cm high, sunken beds are recommended for dry season cultivation. Pathways should be between beds.