How Cold Can New Tomato Plants Tolerate

Tomatoes are a popular plant to grow in summer, but they are delicate and vulnerable to cold temperatures. If you are planning to grow new tomato plants, it is essential to understand their tolerance to cold weather.

Temperature Range Tolerance for Tomato Plants

Tomato plants thrive in warm climates with temperatures ranging between 60°F to 70°F. When the temperature falls below 55°F or rises above 90°F, tomato plants suffer from stress and struggle to produce fruit.

However, tomato plants can tolerate temperatures below 55°F if they are mature and established. The plant's leaves may turn darker green, and the plant may show some signs of stress, but there will be no significant damage to the plant's growth or fruit production.

On the other hand, new tomato plants cannot tolerate cold temperatures as well as mature plants. It is best to avoid planting new tomato plants until the threat of frost has passed, and the soil and air temperature remain consistently above 55°F.

Protecting New Tomato Plants from Cold

If you live in an area with colder temperatures, it is necessary to take some precautions to protect your newly planted tomato plants from cold weather.

You can cover the plants with blankets, row covers, or plastic sheets to trap the heat and keep the plants warm. It would be best to remove them during the day to avoid overheating the plant. Additionally, you can plant the tomato plant near a warm wall that absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night.

It is also essential to water your tomato plants adequately. Cold weather can damage the plant's root system, and a dry plant is more susceptible to frost damage. Watering the plant regularly helps regulate the soil's temperature and provide necessary moisture to the plant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, new tomato plants cannot tolerate cold temperatures as well as mature plants. Therefore, it is best to wait until the threat of frost has passed and the soil and air temperature remain consistently above 55°F before planting new tomato plants. If you live in a colder climate, it is necessary to take precautions to protect your newly planted tomato plants from frost damage.