Can I Plant Cherry Tomatoes in June?

Cherry tomatoes are a favorite among many gardeners due to their smaller size, delicious taste, and versatility. While most gardeners plant cherry tomatoes in the early spring or late winter, it's possible to plant them in June as long as the growing conditions are favorable. In this article, we'll explore whether planting cherry tomatoes in June is a good idea and the steps you need to take to ensure a bountiful harvest.

The Best Time to Plant Cherry Tomatoes

Typically, the best time to plant cherry tomatoes is in the early spring when the soil temperature is around 70°F. This is because cherry tomatoes thrive in warm, consistent temperatures and require plenty of sunlight to grow. However, if you missed the early spring planting window, planting cherry tomatoes in June is also an option. The key to a successful harvest is ensuring that the plant has plenty of time to grow and mature before the first frost hits.

Choosing the Right Cherry Tomato Variety

When planting cherry tomatoes in June, it's essential to choose a variety that can mature quickly. Some cherry tomato varieties take longer to mature than others, and planting one that takes too long to ripen can result in a disappointing harvest. Some quick-maturing varieties include Early Cherry, Sweet Million, and Sun Gold. These varieties can mature as early as 55 days after transplantation.

Preparing the Soil

The soil in which you plant your cherry tomatoes must be well-draining and rich in nutrients. Adding compost or well-aged manure to the soil can help boost the soil's fertility and provide the necessary nutrients for your plants. If you're planting your tomatoes in a container, ensure that the soil has plenty of drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Planting the Cherry Tomatoes

When planting your cherry tomatoes, ensure that you're planting them in a spot that receives plenty of sunlight. A minimum of six hours of sunlight daily is necessary for the plants to thrive. Dig a hole that's twice as wide as your seedling and the same depth. Place the seedling in the hole and fill with soil, being careful not to bury the stem. Water thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.

Caring for Your Cherry Tomatoes

Once your cherry tomatoes are planted, it's essential to care for them correctly to ensure a bountiful harvest. Water them regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month to provide the necessary nutrients, and remove any suckers that appear between the main stem and branches to promote good airflow. You may also need to protect your plants from pests such as aphids, hornworms, and cutworms, by using natural or chemical means.

In Summary

Planting cherry tomatoes in June is possible as long as the right conditions are met. Choosing quick-maturing varieties, preparing the soil correctly, and properly caring for your plants are essential to ensure a successful harvest. So, if you missed the early spring planting window, don't worry. Planting cherry tomatoes in June may still yield a bountiful crop with a little care and attention.