When to Plant Fall Tomatoes in Houston

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in Houston, and many gardeners enjoy planting them in the fall. Fall is less stressful for tomato plants, as the harsh summer heat has passed and cooler temperatures create a more amenable growing environment. However, timing is everything when it comes to fall tomato planting, and it's important to know when to plant to get the best results. In this article, we'll discuss the ideal time to plant fall tomatoes in Houston.

Understanding the Houston Climate

Houston has a warm and humid subtropical climate, which can make growing tomatoes challenging, especially during the hot and humid summer months. Summers in Houston can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, fall weather is typically mild with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 70s, making it an ideal time to plant tomatoes.

When to Plant

The ideal time to plant fall tomatoes in Houston is between mid-August and early September. This timing ensures that the tomatoes have enough time to mature and ripen before the first frost in late fall or winter. The first frost in Houston typically occurs in mid- to late-December.

It's important to avoid planting too early in the fall, as the hot and humid weather can cause stress on the plants and significantly reduce their yield. On the other hand, planting too late can result in a shorter growing season and lower yields.

Choosing Tomato Varieties

When choosing tomato varieties to plant in the fall, it's important to select those that can withstand the cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours of the season. Some popular varieties for fall planting in Houston include:

Cherokee Purple

Celebrity

Roma

San Marzano

Yellow Pear

These varieties are known for their ability to tolerate cooler temperatures, which makes them ideal for fall planting in Houston.

Planting Tips

When planting fall tomatoes in Houston, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of full sun per day.

Make sure the soil is well-drained, fertile, and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Plant tomatoes in raised beds or containers to improve drainage.

Water tomato plants deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilize tomato plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.

Stake or cage tomato plants to support their growth and prevent them from falling over.

In Conclusion

Fall is a great time to plant tomatoes in Houston, as the cooler temperatures and milder weather provide ideal growing conditions. To get the best results, plant fall tomatoes in mid-August to early September and choose varieties that can tolerate cooler temperatures. With proper care and attention, fall tomatoes can provide a plentiful harvest that will enhance any meal.