What to do with Tomato Plants when it gets Cold

Tomato plants are a popular choice for vegetable gardens as they produce an abundant crop from a single plant. However, as winter approaches and temperatures begin to drop, gardeners may begin to wonder what they should do with their tomato plants. Below, we have outlined some things to keep in mind when winterizing your tomato plants.

Harvesting Tomatoes

The first step in preparing your tomato plants for the winter is to harvest all of the ripe and nearly-ripe fruit. This will prevent any fruit from rotting on the vine or getting damaged due to the cold. If you still have green tomatoes on the vine, you can pick them and allow them to ripen inside your home. Check them regularly and discard any that start to show signs of decay.

Trimming the Plant

Once you have harvested all of the ripe fruit, you can remove any remaining leaves, stems, and branches that are no longer producing any fruit. This helps to focus the plant's energy on the remaining fruit and can also reduce the spread of diseases. Be sure to use sharp pruning shears and sterile them between each cut to prevent the spread of any harmful organisms.

Protecting the Roots

The roots of tomato plants are susceptible to freezing during the winter months. To protect them, you can add a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant. This will help to insulate the roots and prevent them from being damaged by the cold. Straw, leaves, or any other organic material can be used as mulch.

Covering the Plants

If the temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, it may be necessary to cover your tomato plants to protect them from damage. You can use blankets, tarps, or any other material that will provide some insulation. However, it's essential to make sure that the material is not touching the plant as this can cause damage due to moisture buildup or weight.

Bringing Plants inside

If you have potted tomato plants, it may be a good idea to bring them indoors as the temperatures start to drop. Be sure to place them in an area that receives plenty of sunlight, and keep them away from any drafts. You may need to supplement the light with grow lights during the winter months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

In Summary

Tomato plants can continue to produce fruit well into the fall, but once the temperatures begin to drop, it's essential to take some steps to protect them. Harvest the ripe fruit, trim the plant, add a layer of mulch around the base, cover the plant if necessary, and bring potted plants indoors. These simple steps can help to ensure that your tomato plants remain healthy and continue to produce for many growing seasons to come.