When to Plant Tomatoes in Colorado 2017

Colorado's climate can be a bit tricky when it comes to planting tomatoes. Although this state has plenty of sunshine, many areas experience unpredictable weather patterns and temperature fluctuations. So, if you want to successfully grow tomatoes in Colorado, you need to follow a few guidelines.

Check Your Zone

Before planting any vegetables, it's crucial to know your gardening zone. Colorado has different micro-climates, so your location will determine what plant varieties can thrive in your garden. If you're not sure about your zone, consult with your local extension office or check the USDA's Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Colorado ranges from Zone 2a to Zone 7a, which means that some parts of the state can be colder than others.

Timing Matters

The optimal time to plant tomatoes in Colorado is after the last frost. However, the last frost date varies depending on your region. According to the Colorado State University Extension, the average last frost date for the Front Range area (including Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins) is May 7. In the higher elevation regions, such as the mountains, the last frost date can extend to early June. So, make sure to check the average frost date in your area before planting tomatoes.

Indoor Seed Starting

If you want to get a head start on your tomato plants, consider indoor seed starting. This method allows you to start your seeds indoors before transplanting them to your garden. Indoor seed starting is ideal for Colorado's unpredictable climate, as you can protect your seedlings from any sudden weather changes. You can start your tomato seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Once the seedlings are about six inches tall and have two to four true leaves, you can transplant them outdoors to your garden.

Soil and Temperature Conditions

Tomatoes need well-drained, fertile soil to grow. Before planting your tomatoes, ensure that your soil pH level is around 6.0 to 6.8. You can test the soil pH level by buying a soil test kit from your local nursery or by sending a sample of your soil to a soil testing lab. In addition to the soil conditions, ensure that the temperature is warm enough to plant tomatoes. The ideal soil temperature for planting tomatoes is around 60°F to 70°F. If the temperature is too cold, it can stunt the growth of your tomato plants.

Varieties That Thrive in Colorado

If you're not sure what type of tomatoes to plant in Colorado, try one of these varieties:

Cherokee Purple:

A medium to large heirloom tomato variety that has an intense, smoky taste. It thrives in Colorado's warm summers.

Yellow Pear:

A small, sweet tomato that grows well in Colorado's cooler areas.

Sungold:

A cherry tomato variety that is perfect for snacking. It grows well in both hot and cool weather conditions.

In Conclusion

If you're wondering when to plant tomatoes in Colorado, follow the guidelines mentioned above. Remember to check your gardening zone, timing matters, consider indoor seed starting, ensure the soil and temperature conditions are suitable, and choose the right tomato varieties. With some preparation and care, you can look forward to a bountiful tomato harvest in Colorado.