When To Plant Tomatoes in NC 2018

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in North Carolina. They are easy to grow and can be harvested during the summer months when they are in high demand. If you are planning to grow tomatoes this year, you might be wondering when is the best time to plant them. In this article, we will discuss when to plant tomatoes in NC 2018.

The Best Time To Plant Tomatoes

The best time to plant tomatoes in North Carolina is between March and May. This is when the soil is warm enough for the seeds to germinate and the weather is mild enough for the plants to thrive. If you plant your seeds too early, they might not be able to withstand the colder temperatures and frost that can occur in the state during the spring months.

Preparing The Soil

Before you plant your tomato seeds, you need to prepare the soil. The soil must be well-drained, nutrient-rich, and have a pH level of around 6.0 to 6.8. You can add compost or fertilizer to the soil to enrich it with the necessary nutrients. You can also test the soil pH using a soil test kit, which you can purchase from a garden center or online.

Choosing The Right Tomato Variety

When selecting tomato seeds to plant, it is important to choose a variety that is suitable for the climate and growing conditions in North Carolina. Some of the popular tomato varieties that do well in North Carolina include Early Girl, Celebrity, Better Boy, and Roma. You can also choose heirloom varieties if you prefer to grow organic tomatoes that have not been genetically modified.

Planting The Seeds

You can plant the tomato seeds directly in the soil, or you can start them indoors before transplanting them outdoors. If you choose to start them indoors, you should plant the seeds in pots or trays filled with well-drained soil. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil, and you should keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. After a few weeks, the seedlings should be strong enough to transplant outdoors.

If you plant the seeds directly in the soil, you should plant them at a depth of around 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. You should also space the plants at least two feet apart to allow for good air circulation and to prevent overcrowding.

Caring For The Tomato Plants

Once your tomato plants are established, you should water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. You can also add a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. You should also provide support for the plants as they grow taller, using stakes, cages, or trellises.

You should also fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also use a tomato-specific fertilizer that is formulated to meet the specific needs of tomato plants.

In Conclusion

Growing tomatoes in North Carolina can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By choosing the right variety, planting at the appropriate time, and caring for the plants properly, you can harvest a bountiful crop of delicious, home-grown tomatoes. So, go ahead and get started on your tomato garden today!