When to Plant Tomatoes in Boise, Idaho

Boise, Idaho has a relatively short growing season due to its high altitude and arid climate. With proper planning, however, gardeners can still enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, juicy tomatoes. The key is to know when to plant and what varieties are best suited to the region. In this article, we will discuss when to plant tomatoes in Boise, Idaho, and provide some tips for successful cultivation.

Timing

The best time to plant tomatoes in Boise, Idaho is in late May or early June, after the last frost date has passed. The last frost date typically occurs around May 10th, but it may vary from year to year. It is important to wait until the soil has warmed up and dried out enough to prevent seedlings from rotting in the ground. Planting too early can also result in stunted growth and poor fruit set.

If you want to get a head start on the season, you can start your tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the soil has warmed up and the weather is settled. Be sure to harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of several days.

Varieties

Not all tomato varieties are suited to Boise, Idaho's climate. Look for varieties that are adapted to cooler temperatures, shorter seasons, and drier conditions. Here are some recommendations:

Early Girl: An early-season variety that produces medium-sized, flavorful fruit.

Celebrity: A popular hybrid that is disease-resistant and produces large, uniform fruit.

Cherokee Purple: An heirloom variety with a rich, smoky flavor and deep purple color.

Jubilee: A bright, meaty tomato with a mild, sweet flavor.

San Marzano: A classic Italian tomato that is ideal for sauces and canning.

When choosing tomato plants or seeds, look for varieties that are labeled "cold-hardy" or "early-season." These will be better adapted to Boise's cooler climate and shorter growing season.

Cultivation Tips

Here are some tips for growing healthy, productive tomato plants in Boise, Idaho:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.

Prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This will improve soil structure and fertility.

Plant tomatoes deep, burying the stem up to the first set of leaves. This will encourage the plant to develop a strong root system and resist wind damage.

Water tomato plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry spells. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.

Support tomato plants with stakes, cages, or trellises to keep them upright and prevent fruit from touching the ground.

Fertilize tomato plants with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.

Monitor tomato plants for pests and diseases, and treat promptly with organic methods if necessary.

By following these tips and selecting the right varieties, you can enjoy a bumper crop of delicious, home-grown tomatoes in Boise, Idaho.