When to Plant Tomatoes in Missouri

Tomatoes are a popular plant for Missouri gardeners, but timing is everything when it comes to planting them. Plant them too early and they can be damaged by frost, but plant them too late and you risk a shorter growing season due to heat stress in the summer. Let's take a closer look at the best time to plant tomatoes in Missouri.

Timing is Crucial

The first thing to consider when planting tomatoes in Missouri is the average last frost date in your area. This varies depending on location, but the typical last frost date across the state is in mid- to late April. To be safe, it is recommended to wait until after this date to plant your tomato seeds or seedlings. This ensures that the plants won't be damaged by any unexpected late-season frost.

Choosing the Right Variety

Once the frost date has passed, it's time to choose your tomato variety. It's important to pick a variety that is well-suited for Missouri's climate, such as Celebrity, Early Girl, and Better Boy. These varieties are known for their strong resistance to disease and pests, as well as their ability to thrive in heat and humidity.

Preparing Your Soil

Before planting your tomato seeds or seedlings, it's important to prepare your soil properly. Missouri's soil is known for being clay-heavy, which can make it difficult for roots to grow and absorb nutrients. To combat this, it's recommended to add organic matter to the soil, such as compost or aged manure. This will help improve the soil's structure and ability to retain water.

Planting Your Tomatoes

When planting your tomato seeds or seedlings, it's important to space them out properly. Tomatoes need room to grow, so be sure to space them about 2 to 3 feet apart. It's also recommended to plant them about 2 inches deeper than they were in the container. The extra depth will help the plant develop a stronger root system and better resistance to disease.

Maintaining Your Tomatoes

Once your tomatoes are planted, it's important to maintain them properly. This includes watering them regularly, providing support for the plants as they grow, and keeping an eye out for any signs of disease or pest infestations. To maximize your harvest, it's also recommended to fertilize your tomato plants every 2 to 3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

Tomatoes typically take about 70 to 80 days to mature and ripen on the vine. They are ready to harvest when they are fully colored and firm to the touch. Be sure to pick them as soon as they are ripe to prevent any damage from pests or over-ripening on the vine. If you have an abundance of ripe tomatoes, you can also store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes in Missouri requires careful planning and attention to detail, but the end result is well worth the effort. By choosing the right variety, preparing your soil, and maintaining your plants properly, you can enjoy a plentiful harvest of fresh, juicy tomatoes all summer long.