When to Plant Tomatoes in Northern Ontario

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in gardens across North America. If you live in Northern Ontario and want to grow tomatoes, you might be wondering when the best time to plant them is. The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, but in general, the best time to plant tomatoes in Northern Ontario is in late May or early June.

Factors That Affect Tomatoes in Northern Ontario

Several factors will affect how well your tomatoes grow in Northern Ontario, including the last frost date, soil temperature, and the length of the growing season. The last frost date is crucial to consider because tomatoes are frost-sensitive plants. If tomatoes are exposed to frost, their leaves and fruit can be damaged or killed, so it is essential to wait until the last frost has passed before planting them. In Northern Ontario, the last frost typically occurs in early May, but it can vary depending on the location and elevation.

The soil temperature is another important factor to consider when planting tomatoes. Tomatoes prefer warmer soil temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the soil is too cold, the seeds will not germinate, and the young plants will struggle to grow. You can use a soil thermometer to measure the temperature of your garden bed. If the soil is too cold, you can warm it up by covering the bed with black plastic or using a cloche or row cover.

The length of the growing season is a final factor that will affect tomato growth in Northern Ontario. In general, the growing season in Northern Ontario is shorter than in Southern Ontario. In Northern Ontario, the average length of the growing season is about 90-100 days. This means that you should choose tomato varieties that can mature within this time frame, such as Early Girl, Manitoba, or Siberia.

How to Plant Tomatoes in Northern Ontario

Once you have determined the best time to plant tomatoes in Northern Ontario and have prepared your soil, it’s time to start planting. Here is a step-by-step guide to planting tomatoes:

Step 1: Choose healthy tomato seedlings from a reputable garden center or start your seeds indoors six to eight weeks before planting outside.

Step 2: Dig a hole in the soil that is slightly larger than the size of the seedling container. Make sure the hole is deep enough to bury the stem up to the first set of leaves.

Step 3: Remove the tomato seedling from the container and loosen the roots before placing it in the hole.

Step 4: Fill the hole with soil and gently press down to secure the seedling. Water the soil around the tomato plant, being careful not to get the leaves or stem wet.

Step 5: Consider adding a layer of mulch around the tomato plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weeds.

Caring for Tomatoes in Northern Ontario

After planting, it’s time to care for your tomato plants. Here are some tips for caring for your tomato plants in Northern Ontario:

Watering: Tomatoes need regular watering throughout the growing season. Water the plants deeply once a week, or more frequently during dry spells. Make sure not to overwater the plants as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

Fertilizing: Tomatoes need adequate nutrients to grow and produce fruit. Consider fertilizing your plants once a month with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Pruning: Tomatoes benefit from regular pruning to promote air circulation, prevent disease, and encourage fruit production. Remove any yellow or diseased leaves and prune the plant by removing the bottom leaves up to the first set of fruit.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes in Northern Ontario can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful consideration of factors like last frost date, soil temperature, and the length of the growing season. By following these tips for planting and caring for your tomato plants, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious tomatoes in your garden.