How Late Can You Plant Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are a popular addition to many home gardens due to their sweet flavor and ease of growth. However, the planting season for these little fruits can leave gardeners wondering how late they can realistically plant and still expect a healthy harvest. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about planting cherry tomatoes and answer the question of how late is too late to plant them.

Factors to Consider

Before we can answer the question of how late you can plant cherry tomatoes, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the location of your garden will play a role in the planting season. If you live in an area with a shorter growing season, it may be best to plant cherry tomatoes earlier in the year to ensure a good harvest. The variety of cherry tomato you choose will also impact the planting season, as some varieties are able to tolerate cooler temperatures better than others.

Another factor to consider is the maturity time of the cherry tomato you plan to plant. Different cherry tomato varieties will have different maturity times, which can range from 60 to 85 days. If you are planting later in the season, it may be best to choose an earlier maturing variety to give your plants the best chance for success.

Planting Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are typically planted beginning in early spring once the threat of frost has passed. However, depending on your location and the variety of cherry tomato you choose, planting can continue through the summer and even into early fall. When planting cherry tomatoes, choose a spot in your garden with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.

It is recommended to plant cherry tomatoes 24 to 36 inches apart to give them space to grow and prevent overcrowding. The planting hole should be dug deep enough to cover the bottom stem of the plant, with soil mounded around the base to create a shallow dish shape. This will help water reach the roots of the plant during watering.

Extending the Growing Season

If you find yourself wanting to plant cherry tomatoes later in the season, there are a few actions you can take to extend your growing season. One option is to use a cold frame or greenhouse to protect your plants from colder temperatures and frost. Another option is to cover your cherry tomatoes with a frost blanket or row cover, which will help keep them warm in cooler temperatures.

If you live in a warmer climate, shading your cherry tomato plants during the hottest part of the day can also help extend the growing season. Watering your plants consistently and deeply can also help ensure a successful harvest, as cherry tomatoes depend on consistent moisture to produce their sweet fruits.

Conclusion

So, how late can you plant cherry tomatoes? The answer is that it depends on a variety of factors such as your location, the variety of cherry tomato, and the maturity time of the plant. With careful planning and the right growing conditions, however, it is possible to plant cherry tomatoes later in the season and still expect a bountiful harvest. By providing your cherry tomato plants with plenty of sunlight, consistent watering, and protection from colder temperatures, you can enjoy the sweet flavor of these little fruits well into the fall months.