What to do with Tomato Plants at the End of the Season

As summer comes to a close, it’s important to decide what to do with your tomato plants. You’ve enjoyed the bounty of fresh tomatoes throughout the season, but now it’s time to think about what comes next. Here are some tips on what to do with tomato plants at the end of the season.

Harvest the Last of Your Tomatoes

Before you decide what to do with your tomato plants, it’s important to harvest the last of your tomatoes. Tomatoes should be picked when they are fully ripened on the vine, so make sure to check for any stragglers. If you have green tomatoes left on the vine, you can pick them and let them ripen indoors. To do this, place them in a paper bag with a ripe banana or apple, and store them in a dark, cool area for a few days. The ethylene gas produced by the banana or apple will help to ripen the tomatoes. Remember to check on them daily and discard any that become moldy or rotten.

Cut Back Your Tomato Plants

Once you’ve harvested your remaining tomatoes, it’s time to cut back the plant. Pruning the plant will help to ensure that it won’t be affected by disease and pest problems in the future. Cut back the plant to about six inches above the soil. You can also remove any yellowed or damaged leaves. It’s important to dispose of the cuttings and any debris in the trash, not in your compost bin. This will help to prevent the spread of any diseases or pests to other parts of your garden.

Protect Your Soil

After you’ve cut back your tomato plants, it’s important to protect your soil. Planting a cover crop, like clover or rye, can help to keep your soil healthy and prevent erosion. Cover crops are also beneficial because they add nutrients to the soil as they decompose. If you’re not planning to plant a cover crop, you can also add a layer of organic mulch to your soil. This will help to retain moisture and add nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time.

Clean Your Tools

When you’re done cutting back your tomato plants, it’s important to clean your tools. This will help to prevent the spread of any diseases or pests to other plants in your garden. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water to clean your tools. Make sure to wipe them down with a clean cloth and let them dry completely before storing them.

Conclusion

Deciding what to do with your tomato plants at the end of the season is an important task for any gardener. By harvesting the last of your tomatoes, cutting back your plant, protecting your soil, and cleaning your tools, you’ll be well on your way to preparing your garden for the colder months ahead. With a little bit of care and attention, your garden will be ready to produce another bountiful harvest next year.