Tobacco
Nicotiana tabacum · Solanaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant tobacco: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Adult size
- 1 to 2.5 m in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, large lanceolate leaves
- Flowering
- Summer to fall, pink, white or red flowers
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, freezes at 0 °C
- Origin
- Central and South America
Care
Light and climate
Tobacco requires a sunny and warm location to develop properly. It needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place it in a spot sheltered from strong winds and maintain an average temperature between 18 and 25 °C for optimal growth.
Soil and preparation
Prefer fertile, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Enrich the soil with compost or well-decomposed manure before planting. Compacted or waterlogged soil promotes fungal diseases; ensure good soil structure and adequate drainage.
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during active growth. Reduce watering as the plant approaches maturity. Prefer watering at the base in the morning to prevent leaf diseases.
Nutrition
Apply balanced fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season. You can use moderate nitrogen at the beginning, then favor potassium at flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which would weaken the plant's resistance.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove flowers as they appear if you wish to cultivate only the foliage. Remove diseased or damaged leaves as needed. Pinch the stem tips to encourage a bushier habit and better branching.
Diseases and pests
Watch for mildew, powdery mildew, and bacterial rot, particularly in excessive humidity. Aphids, whiteflies, and mites can affect dense crops. Maintain good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected parts promptly to prevent spread.
Did you know?
Tobacco has long fascinated botanists with its ability to accumulate large quantities of alkaloids (including nicotine). Originally from Central America, it was introduced to Europe in the 16th century and revolutionized global trade. Nicotiana tabacum is also widely studied in genetics and molecular biology, as it is a major model plant for modern scientific research.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.