A tradition among many growers is to plant creole tomatoes in the field on or near St. Joseph's Day on March 19. This exposes the transplant to cooler temperatures. Transplants are watered with a starter solution just prior to planting. Grow tomatoes in full sunlight. Tomatoes need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Drip irrigation utilizes water efficiently and can be utilized to fertilize, as well.
The Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service recommends a drip irrigation system capable of delivering 0.5 gallons per minute per 100 feet of tube and 1.0 gallons per plant in 9 hours of operating time. Tomatoes are planted on substantially-sized rows. Usually the more clay in the soil and the poorer the drainage, the higher the row. Cross drains are needed to remove excess water from the field. A soil analysis is the most accurate means of calculating fertilizer requirements.