What Month Do I Plant Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop that are easy to grow and abundant in flavor. However, deciding on the right time to plant tomatoes can be a bit tricky as it varies depending on where you live and the type of tomato you want to grow. In general, there are four main types of tomatoes; determinate, indeterminate, early-season, and late-season. Your decision on what type to plant will have a direct impact on when you should plant them.

Determinate Tomatoes

These tomatoes are smaller in size and grow in a compact bush form. They produce all their fruit at once, over a period of two to three weeks, and then stop growing. Therefore, determinate tomatoes are ideal for gardeners who want to harvest a large yield in a short time period. They are generally planted in the spring or early summer, once the soil temperatures have reached around 60°F (15.5°C).

Indeterminate Tomatoes

These tomatoes are larger in size and grow on vines. They continuously produce fruit throughout the growing season, which can last up to six months. Indeterminate tomatoes require more space and support, especially if you live in a windy area. They are generally planted after the last frost date in your area, around April or May for most regions in the United States.

Early-Season Tomatoes

These tomatoes are bred to mature quickly, usually within 50 to 60 days of planting. They are ideal for gardeners who live in colder regions or those who want to have an early crop of tomatoes. Early-season tomatoes can be planted indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate and soil temperature. They are generally planted in early spring, around March or April, depending on the region.

Late-Season Tomatoes

These tomatoes take longer to mature, usually within 80 to 100 days of planting. They are ideal for gardeners who live in warmer regions or those who want a later crop of tomatoes. Late-season tomatoes can be planted outdoors in May or June, depending on the region. However, if you live in a colder area, you can start them indoors in February or March and then transplant them in May.

In conclusion, there is no universal answer to the question, "What month do I plant tomatoes?" as it varies depending on the type of tomato you want to grow and where you live. However, taking into consideration your region and the type of tomato you want to grow can help you make an informed decision on when to plant your tomatoes for the best yield.