When Should I Plant Tomatoes in New Jersey?

Tomatoes are a popular crop to grow in New Jersey, but the perfect time for planting can vary depending on your location and the weather. To help you make the most of your tomato crop, we have put together a guide for when you should plant tomatoes in New Jersey.

Location

The first thing to consider when planting tomatoes in New Jersey is your location. In general, the southern parts of the state have a longer growing season and can be planted earlier than the northern parts of the state.

The USDA plant hardiness zones in New Jersey range from 6a in the north to 7b in the south. This means that if you live in the northern half of the state, you should wait until the soil has warmed up before planting. The soil should be at least 60°F before you can plant tomatoes.

If you live in the southern half of the state, you can plant tomatoes earlier. You should aim to plant your tomatoes when the soil temperature reaches at least 50°F.

Frost Dates

Another important factor to consider when planting tomatoes in New Jersey is the last spring frost date. This is the date when the risk of frost has passed, and it is safe to plant cold-sensitive crops like tomatoes outdoors.

The last spring frost date in New Jersey ranges from mid-April to mid-May depending on your location. In general, the southern parts of the state have a later last frost date than the northern parts.

You should aim to plant tomatoes after the last spring frost date to avoid any damage to your plants. If you plant your tomatoes too early, they may get killed by frost, which can stunt growth or even kill the plant altogether.

Tomato Varieties

The type of tomato plant you choose can also affect when you should plant them in New Jersey. There are two main types of tomatoes: determinate and indeterminate.

Determinate tomatoes are bushier and more compact, and they produce their fruit all at once. These tomatoes are well-suited for growing in containers or small gardens, and they mature faster than indeterminate tomatoes.

Indeterminate tomatoes grow taller and need more space, and they produce fruit throughout the growing season. These tomatoes are well-suited for larger gardens or farms, and they require more maintenance than determinate tomatoes.

In general, determinate tomatoes can be planted earlier than indeterminate tomatoes. Determinate tomatoes take around 70 days to mature, while indeterminate tomatoes take around 85 days to mature.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes in New Jersey can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to choose the right time to plant. Consider your location, the soil temperature, the last spring frost date, and the type of tomato plant when deciding when to plant.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tomato crop grows strong and healthy, giving you a bountiful harvest to enjoy throughout the growing season.