What Temp Will Kill My Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are some of the easiest vegetables to grow in a garden. They can withstand a lot, but temperature extremes can be detrimental to their survival. Tomato plants will typically thrive in temperatures between 60-80°F, and in this range, they can produce fruit for months. However, what temperature will kill your tomato plants?

Frost Damage

Tomato plants are not cold-hardy and can be damaged by frost. When temperatures dip below 32°F, frost can form on the leaves of the tomato plant. The frost causes damage to the plant's cells, leading to droopy leaves or wilting. The plant will stop growing but recover when temperatures begin to warm up. However, if the temperatures drop further below freezing, the cell damage becomes irreversible, and the plant dies.

Heat Damage

While tomatoes can handle heat, there is a limit to what they can tolerate. When temperatures rise above 90°F, the plant will begin to struggle. High temperatures cause the leaves to droop and wilt, and the plant may stop producing fruit. The fruit itself can also suffer from heat stress, leading to a lack of flavor or producing misshapen fruit. When temperatures exceed 100°F, the tomato plant may suffer permanent damage, resulting in wilting, yellowing, and eventually death.

Extreme Temperatures

While frost and heat can be detrimental to the tomato plants, an even more significant threat is extreme temperature fluctuations. When the temperatures change quickly, the plants may not have time to adapt, leading to cell damage and plant death. Extreme temperature fluctuations can happen after a cold night followed by a hot day, or when a heatwave is followed by a sudden storm. Try to protect your plants as much as possible during these temperature changes by adding mulch, using shade cloths, or watering frequently to help your plants adapt.

Protecting Your Tomato Plants

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your tomato plants from extreme temperatures. Shade cloths can help protect them from the intense heat, and mulching can keep the soil moist and cool. If you know the weather is going to dip below freezing, covering your plants with plastic or cloth can help regulate the temperature and keep them from freezing. Providing proper nutrition can also help your plants better withstand extreme temperatures. Ensure your soil is well-draining, and your plants receive enough water and nutrients to help them stay healthy.

Conclusion

Tomato plants can be tough, but it's essential to keep an eye on the temperatures to keep them healthy. Frost and heat can both be harmful to your plant, and extreme temperature fluctuations can cause permanent damage. However, by taking steps to protect your plants from temperature extremes, you can ensure they thrive and produce delicious fruit for months to come.