What to Do When Your Tomato Plants Freeze

It can be heartbreaking to see your hard work in the garden destroyed by an unexpected frost. If your tomato plants freeze, it may not be the end of the world. There are still steps you can take to save your plants and your harvest.

Assess the Damage

Before you do anything, take some time to assess the damage. Look at the leaves, stems, and fruit to see how badly they've been affected by the freeze. If the plants are still standing tall and the leaves haven't turned brown or black, there's a good chance they'll recover. If the leaves are wilted and the stems are drooping, you may need to take more drastic measures.

Prune the Plants

If your tomato plants are still alive after a frost, it's a good idea to prune them back. Cut off any damaged or dead branches, leaves, or fruit. This will help the plant conserve energy and focus on producing new, healthy growth. Don't be afraid to cut the plants back aggressively. Tomatoes are tough and can bounce back from heavy pruning.

Cover the Plants

Next, protect your plants from any future frost by covering them with blankets, tarps or frost covers. These materials will help insulate the plants and trap heat inside. Be sure to secure the covers firmly, so they don't blow away or damage the plants.

Provide Extra Care

After a freeze, your tomato plants will need extra care and attention to help them recover. Water the plants deeply, but be careful not to overwater them. Wet soil can make it harder for roots to absorb nutrients and may promote fungal growth. Consider feeding your plants with a balanced fertilizer to give them a boost of nutrients. If your plants were severely damaged, consider adding a stake or support to help them stand upright.

Conclusion

A freeze can be a devastating event for any gardener, but there are still steps you can take to save your tomato plants. Assess the damage, prune the plants, cover them against future frost, and provide extra care to help them recover. With a little bit of TLC, your tomato plants can still produce a bountiful harvest.