When to Cover Your Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables for home gardeners, but they can be vulnerable to a range of pests and diseases. One way to protect your tomato plants is by covering them with some form of protective material. However, you need to choose the right time to cover them to get the best results.

When to Cover Tomatoes with Protective Material

The best time to cover tomato plants with protective material is when you're expecting cold temperatures or frost. Tomato plants are sensitive to cold weather, and frost can quickly kill off any unprotected plants. Covering them before the cold weather hits can help keep them warm and prevent damage.

You can also use protective material to keep pests, such as aphids, stink bugs and tomato hornworms, from attacking your plants. But you need to be careful with this method as covering your plants too often can also impede pollination by bees and other garden insects. It's best to use protective covering when it is absolutely necessary.

Types of Protective Material to Use

There are several types of protective material that you can use to cover your tomato plants. Some of the most common options include:

Row covers: These are lightweight, breathable fabrics that protect plants while still allowing air and light to pass through.

Frost blankets: These are made from thicker, insulating materials that can provide additional warmth to your plants. They're useful if you're expecting a hard frost or prolonged cold snap.

Cloths, sheets, and blankets: These are household items that can also offer some level of protection in a pinch. However, they can be heavy and may not allow your plants to breathe as well as other options.

Cages and netting: These can be useful for protecting your plants from pests like birds and squirrels, but they won't offer much protection against cold temperatures.

Tips for Using Protective Material

Here are some useful tips for using protective material to cover your tomato plants:

Make sure you choose a material that's appropriate for the weather conditions you're expecting.

Don't leave your plants covered for too long or they may become overheated and die off.

Keep an eye on your plants while they're covered and remove the protective material as soon as the weather improves.

If you're using a row cover, make sure it's secured properly to prevent pests from getting in.

Check on your plants regularly to make sure they're not suffering from any other issues, such as nutrient deficiencies or diseases.

In conclusion

Protecting your tomato plants with some form of protective material can be a great way to keep them healthy and producing a good crop. However, you need to choose the right material and timing to ensure the best results. If you're not sure what to do, your local nursery or garden center should be able to offer some advice and guidance.