How Late Can I Plant Tomatoes in Pennsylvania?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular plants to grow in Pennsylvania, and they can produce delicious fruit all summer long. However, many gardeners wonder how late they can plant tomatoes and still get a good crop. Here are some factors to consider when deciding when to plant:

Climate

The climate in Pennsylvania can vary widely, but in general, the state is in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 and 6. This means that the average minimum temperature in winter is between -20 and -10 degrees Fahrenheit. In the summer, the average maximum temperature can range from the mid-70s to the low 90s, depending on where you live in the state.

Timing

In general, the best time to plant tomatoes in Pennsylvania is in late April or early May. This gives the plants plenty of time to grow and mature before the heat of summer sets in. However, if you miss this window, you can still plant tomatoes later in the season.

Planting Later in the Season

If you want to plant tomatoes later in the season, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, choose a variety of tomato that has a shorter growing season. Look for varieties that mature in 75 days or less, such as Early Girl or Stupice. This will give you the best chance of getting a good crop before the first frost.

Second, make sure you plant your tomatoes in a location that gets plenty of sunlight. Tomatoes need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. If your garden is shady, consider growing your tomatoes in containers that you can move to a sunnier location.

Third, make sure you keep your tomatoes well-watered. Tomatoes need consistent moisture to produce fruit. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.

Frost

In Pennsylvania, the first frost usually occurs sometime in October. This means that if you plant tomatoes later in the season, you may need to protect them from frost. Here are some ways to do that:

Cover your tomatoes with a frost blanket or lightweight fabric when frost is in the forecast. This will help keep the plants warm and protect them from damage.

Harvest any tomatoes that are still on the vine before the first frost. Even green tomatoes can ripen indoors if you store them in a warm, sunny location.

If you have a greenhouse or other protected growing space, consider growing your tomatoes in containers inside. This will give you more control over the temperature and humidity.

Conclusion

While the best time to plant tomatoes in Pennsylvania is in late April or early May, you can still plant them later in the season and get a good crop if you choose the right variety, plant them in a sunny location, and keep them well-watered. Just be aware of the first frost date and take steps to protect your plants if necessary.