When to Plant Tomatoes in Florida

Florida's warm weather and long growing season makes it the perfect place to grow tomatoes. However, to ensure the best yield possible, it's important to plant tomatoes at the right time. In this article, we'll explore when to plant tomatoes in Florida and how to care for them.

Tomato Varieties for Florida

Before deciding on a planting date, it's important to choose the right tomato variety. Florida's hot and humid weather can be tough on some varieties, while others thrive in the heat. Some of the best varieties for Florida include:

Cherry tomatoes: Small, bite-sized tomatoes that are perfect for snacking

Florida 91: A popular variety known for its disease resistance and high yields

Homestead: A classic, heirloom variety that thrives in hot, humid weather

Roma: A pear-shaped, meaty tomato that's perfect for cooking and canning

When to Plant

The best time to plant tomatoes in Florida is in the winter or early spring. This allows the plants to grow before the hot summer weather sets in. In North Florida, planting can begin in late February or early March, while Central and South Florida can start as early as January.

However, if you miss the early planting window, tomatoes can still be successfully grown in Florida's hot and humid summer weather. Planting in late July or early August will give plants enough time to mature before the cooler fall weather sets in.

Planting Tips

When planting tomatoes, it's important to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Tomatoes require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

When planting, make sure to dig a hole that's deep enough to bury the seedling up to its first set of true leaves. This encourages strong root growth and helps the plant remain stable in the wind. After planting, water thoroughly and mulch around the base of the plant to help conserve water and keep the soil cool.

Care Tips

To ensure a healthy and bountiful tomato harvest, it's important to care for the plants properly. This includes:

Watering regularly: Tomatoes need consistent moisture to thrive, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once a week, or more often during periods of drought.

Fertilizing: Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10, and apply every two to three weeks throughout the growing season.

Pruning: To encourage strong growth and easier harvesting, prune off the suckers that grow between the main stem and the branches.

Supporting: Larger tomato varieties will require a stake or trellis to support their weight as they grow. Make sure to tie the plant to the support structure with a soft string that won't damage the stem.

Pest control: Florida's warm, humid weather can attract pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.

In Conclusion

Tomatoes are a popular and easy-to-grow crop in Florida. By choosing the right varieties and planting at the right time, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to follow proper planting and care techniques, and you'll be rewarded with juicy, delicious tomatoes all season long.