When to Plant and Harvest Tomatoes in Illinois

Tomatoes are a favorite vegetable of many gardeners in Illinois. However, planting and harvesting tomatoes at the right time is crucial to ensure a healthy and abundant harvest. Here is a guide on when to plant and harvest tomatoes in Illinois.

Planting Tomatoes in Illinois

The best time to plant tomatoes in Illinois is in late May or early June. This is after the last frost date of the season, which varies by location in Illinois. Planting before the last frost date can damage or kill your tomato plants.

Before planting, prepare your garden bed by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Tomatoes prefer well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in nutrients. Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

There are two types of tomatoes: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate tomatoes have a more compact growth habit and produce fruit all at once. Indeterminate tomatoes continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season and require trellising or staking. Choose the tomato variety that suits your gardening style and space.

When planting tomatoes, set each plant around 2 feet apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. Water the plants thoroughly after planting.

Harvesting Tomatoes in Illinois

Tomatoes take around 70 to 80 days to mature from planting. The ideal time to harvest tomatoes is when they are fully ripe but still firm to the touch. Fully ripened tomatoes will have a deep color and a slightly soft feel. Pick them gently by hand, and be careful not to damage the stem or the fruit.

Harvesting regularly encourages the development of additional fruit and prolongs the growing season. Tomatoes can continue to ripen even after they are picked. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent overripening.

Tips for Growing Tomatoes in Illinois

Tomatoes require consistent watering to thrive. Water the plants deeply once a week, more during dry spells. Avoid getting the foliage wet when watering, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Mulching around the plants will help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Fertilizing your tomato plants is recommended every two to three weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10, or add organic matter such as compost or aged manure to the soil.

Pruning is optional but can help increase airflow and prevent disease. Remove the lower leaves of the plant as it grows taller to promote better air circulation. Pinch off the suckers, or the new growth that appears between the stem and the branch, to encourage the plant to focus on producing fruit.

In conclusion, planting and harvesting tomatoes in Illinois is a rewarding and satisfying experience for any gardener. Remember to time your planting according to the last frost date, choose a sunny spot, practice good watering and fertilizing habits, and harvest when the tomatoes are ripe.