When Should You Plant Tomatoes in Tennessee?

Tomatoes are a popular summer crop in Tennessee, and planting them at the right time is crucial for a bountiful harvest. Here are some tips for choosing the best time to plant your tomatoes.

Understanding Tennessee’s Growing Zones

Before deciding when to plant tomatoes in Tennessee, it’s important to understand the state’s growing zones. Tennessee has three main zones: Zone 6 in the east, Zone 7 in the central part of the state, and Zone 8 in the west. The growing season in each zone varies slightly, depending on climate and temperature fluctuations.

General Guidelines for Planting Tomatoes

In general, the best time to plant tomatoes in Tennessee is in late April or early May, after the danger of frost has passed. For backyard gardeners who want to start their own tomato seedlings indoors, start the seeds six to eight weeks before the last frost date for your area. This gives the seedlings enough time to grow large and healthy before planting outside.

Factors to Consider When Planting Tomatoes

While late April and early May are good times to plant tomatoes, other factors should be considered when deciding when to plant. The first factor is temperature. Tomato seeds germinate best in warm soil, so make sure the ground temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit before planting. In addition, tomatoes grow best when the daytime temperature is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and the nighttime temperature is between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures are outside this range, growth may be stunted, and tomatoes may not ripen properly.

Another factor to consider is rainfall. Tomatoes require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. If your area experiences prolonged periods of drought or excessive rain, it may be best to wait to plant until conditions improve.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties

The type of tomato you choose to plant also affects the planting time. Determinate varieties, which grow to a certain height and set fruit all at once, can be planted later in the season than indeterminate varieties, which continue growing and producing throughout the summer. For indeterminate varieties, it’s best to plant early in the growing season to maximize harvest.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes in Tennessee can be a rewarding experience, but timing is everything. Keep in mind Tennessee’s growing zones, general planting guidelines, and factors like temperature and rainfall. By making informed decisions about when to plant, you can enjoy a successful tomato harvest in the summer months.