What Temperature Should I Cover Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are a popular and delicious garden crop. However, they are also delicate and can be easily damaged by weather conditions. One common question among gardeners is what temperature is too cold for tomato plants to be left unprotected. In this article, we will explore the ideal temperature range for tomato plants and how to protect them in colder weather.

The Ideal Temperature Range for Tomato Plants

Tomato plants are warm weather crops that thrive in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Temperatures outside of this range can impact the growth, health, and productivity of the plant.

As a rule of thumb, tomato plants will begin to experience stress when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, their growth will slow, and they can become susceptible to disease and pests. When temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant will begin to suffer damage to leaves, stems, and fruit. Once temperatures approach freezing, the plant will be killed off entirely.

Protecting Tomato Plants in Cold Temperatures

Even a brief dip in temperatures can cause damage to tomato plants, so it is important to take steps to protect them when the weather turns cold. One effective method for protecting tomato plants is to cover them with a frost cloth. This will help to insulate the plant and retain some of the warmth from the soil. A frost cloth should be draped over the plant but not pulled tight, as this can cause damage to the stems and leaves. Leave the cloth on until temperatures rise above freezing.

In addition to covering the plants, you can also take steps to increase the ground temperature to help protect the roots. This can be done by adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain heat in the soil.

When to Cover Tomato Plants

It can be difficult to know exactly when to cover tomato plants, as temperatures can fluctuate rapidly during the fall and spring months. A good rule of thumb is to cover tomato plants if temperatures are forecasted to drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a colder climate, it may be necessary to cover plants on a regular basis throughout the growing season.

It is important to remember that you should remove the covering as soon as temperatures have risen above the danger zone. Leaving the covering on during the day can cause the temperature to rise too high and damage the plant.

In Conclusion

Tomato plants are a valuable asset to any gardener, but they can be challenging to protect from the elements. When temperatures begin to drop, it is essential to take steps to protect tomato plants to minimize damage and ensure a healthy crop. Remember to cover tomato plants when temperatures are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and remove the covering as soon as temperatures have stabilized to ensure the plant has the best chance of thriving.