What Temperature Should I Bring My Tomato Plants Inside?

If you live in an area where winters are harsh, you may be wondering when to bring your tomato plants inside. Tomato plants are sensitive to cold weather and need to be protected from frost. However, bringing them indoors too early can also cause problems. In this article, we will discuss the ideal temperature for bringing your tomato plants inside, as well as some tips for keeping them healthy during the winter.

The Ideal Temperature for Bringing Tomato Plants Inside

The ideal temperature for bringing your tomato plants inside is between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the temperature range in which most tomato plants will be dormant, which means they will not grow or produce fruit. This is important because you don't want your plants to continue growing inside, as they will need more space, water, and nutrients than they can get indoors. Additionally, if you allow your plants to continue growing inside, they may become weak and spindly, making it difficult to transplant them back outside in the spring.

If you are unsure about the temperature inside your home, you can use a thermometer to check the temperature in the area where you plan to keep your tomato plants. If the temperature is too high or too low, you may need to adjust the temperature by opening or closing windows or doors, or by using a space heater or fan.

Tips for Keeping Your Tomato Plants Healthy During the Winter

Once you've brought your tomato plants inside, there are a few things you can do to help them stay healthy during the winter:

Water your plants sparingly. Tomato plants do not need as much water during the winter, as they are dormant and not growing. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can kill the plant.

Provide plenty of light. Tomato plants need at least 12 hours of light per day, so you may need to use artificial lights if you don't have a window that receives enough sunlight.

Monitor for pests. Although tomato plants are less likely to attract pests during the winter, it is still important to monitor them regularly for signs of infestation. If you do discover pests, you can use a gentle pesticide to treat them.

Transplant your plants back outside in the spring. Once the danger of frost has passed, you should transplant your tomato plants back outside. Be sure to gradually acclimate them to the outdoor environment by leaving them outside for short periods of time before planting them in the ground.

Conclusion

Bringing your tomato plants inside for the winter is a great way to protect them from harsh weather conditions. However, it is important to do so at the right temperature and take appropriate steps to keep them healthy during the winter. By following the tips outlined in this article, you should be able to help your tomato plants survive the winter and thrive when you transplant them back outside in the spring.