What Temperature Should I Cover My Tomato Plants?

If you're an avid gardener, you know that tomato plants are some of the most rewarding plants to grow. They yield delicious fruit, are relatively low-maintenance, and can grow in a variety of conditions.

One aspect of growing tomatoes that gardeners may overlook, however, is the importance of temperature. While tomatoes can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, there are certain conditions that can negatively impact their growth and yield. One way to protect your tomato plants from temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors is to cover them.

Why Cover Your Tomato Plants?

There are several reasons why you might want to cover your tomato plants. The most common reason is to protect them from frost or extreme cold. Tomato plants are typically quite sensitive to cold temperatures and can suffer damage or even die if exposed to frost or temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods of time.

Covering your tomato plants can also protect them from strong winds, heavy rain, or hail. These weather conditions can damage the leaves and stems of your plants, which can lead to decreased growth and lower yields.

In addition, covering your tomato plants can help regulate temperature and humidity levels, which can promote healthy growth and better yields overall. By trapping heat and moisture around the plants, covers can create a microclimate that is more conducive to growth.

What Types of Covers Are Available?

There are several types of covers that are commonly used to protect tomato plants. Some of the most popular options include:

Frost blankets: These lightweight blankets are made from a breathable material that allows air and moisture to pass through while protecting plants from frost and cold temperatures.

Row covers: These blankets are typically made from a heavier material, such as plastic or fabric, and are designed to protect plants from wind, rain, and pests.

Cloches: These are small, individual covers that can be placed over individual plants. They are typically made from plastic or glass and trap heat and moisture around the plant.

When Should You Cover Your Tomato Plants?

The timing of when to cover your tomato plants will depend on several factors. If you live in an area with mild winters, you may not need to cover your plants at all. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters or unpredictable weather patterns, you may need to cover your plants for several months out of the year.

In general, you should cover your tomato plants when temperatures are expected to drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or when strong winds, heavy rain, or hail are in the forecast. You should also remove the covers during the day when temperatures are expected to rise above 50 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent overheating.

Covering Your Tomato Plants: Tips and Tricks

If you're new to covering your tomato plants, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Make sure that the covers are properly secured around the base of the plant to prevent wind from getting in and potentially damaging the plant.

Try to use covers that allow air and moisture to circulate to prevent moisture buildup and potential fungal growth.

Remove covers during the day to prevent overheating and allow the plant to breathe.

Consider using a thermometer to monitor temperature levels around the plant and adjust covers accordingly.

In Conclusion

Covering your tomato plants can be an effective way to protect them from extreme weather conditions, regulate temperature and humidity levels, and promote healthy growth. By using the right type of cover and following some simple tips, you can help ensure a bountiful tomato harvest.