What is the Latest Date to Plant Tomatoes in Missouri?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in Missouri. They are easy to grow and provide gardeners with a bountiful harvest. However, determining the best time to plant tomatoes can be tricky. Missouri has a climate that is conducive to growing tomatoes, but the growing season is relatively short. So, what is the latest date to plant tomatoes in Missouri?

Factors to Consider

The latest date to plant tomatoes in Missouri depends on a few factors. First, you must consider the average first frost date in your area. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average first frost date in Missouri ranges from mid-September to mid-October. Tomatoes need at least 60 to 100 days to mature from planting to harvest, depending on the variety. Therefore, you should plant your tomatoes no later than mid-June to mid-July to ensure that they have enough time to mature before the first frost.

Another factor to consider is the variety of tomato you plan to grow. Some tomato varieties, such as cherry tomatoes and early girl tomatoes, have a shorter time to maturity and can be planted later in the season. Other varieties, such as beefsteak tomatoes, take longer to mature and should be planted earlier in the season.

Choosing the Right Variety

When selecting a tomato variety to plant in Missouri, it's important to choose one that is well-suited for the growing conditions in your area. Some popular varieties for Missouri include:

Beefsteak: A large and meaty tomato that is great for slicing and salads.

Roma: A meaty and flavorful tomato that is perfect for sauces and canning.

Cherry: A small and sweet tomato that is perfect for snacking and salads.

Early Girl: An early-maturing tomato that produces fruit in as little as 50 days.

Tips for Planting Tomatoes

Here are some tips for planting tomatoes in Missouri:

Choose a site with full sun (at least 6 hours per day).

Plant tomatoes in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Plant tomatoes in raised beds or containers to improve drainage.

Water tomatoes deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.

Fertilize tomatoes with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.

In Conclusion

The latest date to plant tomatoes in Missouri depends on several factors, including the average first frost date and the tomato variety. To ensure a bountiful harvest, it's important to choose the right tomato variety and to follow proper planting and care practices. By doing so, you can enjoy delicious homegrown tomatoes all summer long.