When Should You Plant Tomatoes in Seattle?

Tomatoes are a delicious and versatile fruit that is easy to plant in your garden. However, planting them at the wrong time of year can lead to poor growth, disease, or even death. If you live in Seattle, Washington, the Pacific Northwest climate may make it challenging to know when to plant your tomato seedlings. Here are some tips to help you plant your tomatoes in Seattle for optimal growth and yield.

Understanding Seattle's Climate

Seattle has a cool, maritime climate with mild summers and wet, rainy winters. The Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound moderate Seattle's temperature, keeping it cooler than many other places that are at a similar latitude. The region's climate is classified as a zone 8b, which means that Seattle typically experiences winter lows of around 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Planting Tomatoes in Seattle

Choose the right type of tomato: Seattle's cool, damp climate favors larger, indeterminate tomato varieties that can produce fruit throughout the growing season. Some popular varieties for Seattle gardeners are 'Sungold', 'Cherokee Purple', and 'Black Krim'.

Plant after the last frost: In Seattle, the last frost typically occurs in late March or early April. Wait until the threat of frost has passed before planting your tomato seedlings.

Start with healthy seedlings: Choose tomato seedlings that are healthy, strong, and disease-free. This will give your plants the best chance of survival and growth in Seattle's cool, wet climate.

Prepare your soil: Tomatoes need well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Add compost or other organic matter to your soil to improve its quality and drainage.

Provide support: As your tomato plants grow, they will need support to prevent them from falling over. You can use tomato cages, stakes, or trellises to support your plants.

Best Time to Plant Tomatoes in Seattle

Seattle's climate can be unpredictable, making it challenging for gardeners to know the best time to plant tomatoes. In general, the best time to plant tomato seedlings in Seattle is between late April and early May. This is after the last frost, and when the soil has warmed up enough for optimal growth.

If you want to extend your tomato harvest, you can also plant a second crop in late July or early August. This will give your plants enough time to produce fruit before the first frost of the fall.

Conclusion

Knowing when to plant tomatoes in Seattle is crucial for a successful harvest. By choosing the right type of tomato, starting with healthy seedlings, preparing your soil, providing support, and timing your planting correctly, you can enjoy delicious, juicy tomatoes all season long.