Meanwhile, break up the dirt removed from the hole and mix in a little compost or tomato starter. When the water disappears, fill the hole halfway with dirt. Pinch one, possibly two sets of leaves near the bottom of the seedling and lay the plant in the hole on its side. Gently bend the stem upward so that the remaining leaves are just above ground level. Replace the remaining dirt and pack it lightly.
Tomato plants grow roots out of the stem.
By placing more stem below ground, you increase the likelihood that the plant will develop a strong root structure early in its growing life. Carve a small trench a few inches deep into the dirt just inside the circumference of the hole. Water the plant thoroughly once again. Wait a few days until the ground is partly dried to stake your fence or cages, but be sure to position the stakes away from the plants. When she's not writing about foods and gardening, Gwyn Mellinger is teaching journalism at Baker University.