Should I Plant Tomato Starts in Washington?

Tomatoes are a favorite summer crop for many gardeners, but if you live in Washington, you may be wondering if it's worth it to plant tomato starts. While the state's climate can pose some challenges, growing tomatoes in Washington is definitely possible.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties

When it comes to growing tomatoes in Washington, the first step is to choose the right varieties. Look for tomatoes that are labeled as "cool weather" or "early season" varieties. Some good options include Early Girl, Siberian, and Stupice. These tomatoes are more tolerant of cooler temperatures and will typically produce fruit earlier in the season.

It's also important to choose disease-resistant varieties. Washington's wet weather can be a breeding ground for fungal diseases, so selecting tomatoes that are resistant to common diseases like verticillium wilt and Fusarium wilt can help ensure a healthy crop.

Preparing Your Soil

Before planting your tomato starts, be sure to prepare your soil properly. Tomatoes need well-draining soil with plenty of nutrients. Amend your soil with plenty of compost or aged manure to boost nutrient levels. You may also want to add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.

It's also a good idea to test your soil's pH level. Tomatoes prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8. If your soil is too alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur or peat moss.

When to Plant Tomatoes in Washington

In Washington, it's best to wait until late May or early June to plant your tomato starts. This will give the soil time to warm up and reduce the risk of frost damage.

If you're worried about the weather, consider planting your tomatoes in containers that can be moved indoors if necessary. This is also a good option if you want to grow your tomatoes on a patio or balcony.

Caring for Your Tomatoes

Once your tomato starts are in the ground, it's important to give them the proper care. Water your plants regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In Washington's cooler climate, it's also important to provide plenty of sunlight to help your tomatoes ripen.

Pruning your tomato plants can also help improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease. Remove any suckers and trim back the branches to keep your plants under control.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

With the right care, your tomato plants should start producing fruit in mid to late summer. Harvest your tomatoes when they are fully ripe for the best flavor. If you're having trouble ripening your tomatoes before the first frost, you can always pull up the entire plant and hang it upside down in a cool, dark place to encourage the tomatoes to ripen.

Conclusion

Growing tomatoes in Washington can be challenging, but with the right varieties and proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, homegrown tomatoes. Choose early season varieties that are resistant to disease, prepare your soil properly, and give your plants plenty of sunlight and water. With a little patience and care, you'll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time.