When to Plant Tomato Seeds in NY

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop in New York, but planting them at the wrong time can lead to poor growth and low yields. So, when is the best time to plant tomato seeds in NY?

Climate Considerations

The first thing to consider when planting tomato seeds in NY is the climate. Tomatoes are warm season crops and require warm soil and air temperatures to germinate and grow. In NY, the best time to plant tomato seeds is typically between late April and early June, when the soil temperature at a depth of 2 inches is around 55-60°F.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Planting

Another factor to consider when planting tomato seeds is whether to start them indoors or sow them directly in the garden. Starting seeds indoors allows for earlier planting, but requires more effort and equipment. If you choose to start your tomato seeds indoors, you should do so around 6-8 weeks before you plan to transplant them into the garden.

If you prefer to sow the seeds directly in the garden, wait until the soil has warmed up sufficiently in late April or early May, and sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and in a few days to a week, you should start to see sprouts emerging from the soil.

Choosing The Right Variety

When selecting a tomato variety to plant in NY, look for ones that have been bred for cooler climates and shorter growing seasons, as these will be more likely to thrive in the state's climate.

Some great options for NY gardens include Stupice, Glacier, and Legend tomatoes, which all have shorter growing seasons and can tolerate cooler temperatures. If you're looking for a larger, slicer tomato, try Celebrity or Early Girl, which have also been bred for cooler climates and shorter growing seasons.

Care and Maintenance

Once your tomato seeds have sprouted and are growing well in the garden, be sure to provide them with proper care and maintenance. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.

To avoid diseases and pest problems, be sure to use proper spacing between plants and rotate your tomato plants every year to avoid planting them in the same spot twice in a row.

In Conclusion

Planting tomato seeds in NY requires careful consideration of climate, variety, and timing. By selecting the right seeds, starting them at the right time, and providing proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, juicy tomatoes in your garden this summer.