When to Plant Tomatoes in NY

Tomatoes are a staple in many gardens and a versatile addition to any kitchen. If you live in New York State, you might be wondering when the best time to plant tomatoes in your garden is.

Climate

Before planting your tomatoes, it's important to pay attention to your climate. New York has a wide range of hardiness zones, from Zone 3 in the north to Zone 7 in the south. Tomatoes tend to thrive in zones 5-7, but there are varieties that can grow in cooler or warmer climates.

Starting Indoors

If you want to get a head start on your tomato plants, you can start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. New York City's last frost date is typically April 13th, while upstate New York can be as late as May 20th.

To start your tomatoes indoors, plant them in seed trays or small pots with good drainage. Use a seed starting mix and keep them moist but not waterlogged. Place them in a warm, sunny spot or under grow lights.

Planting Outside

Once the danger of frost has passed, you can transplant your tomato seedlings outdoors. This is usually around mid-May in most of New York State.

When planting your tomatoes outside, choose a spot with full sun and well-draining soil. Tomatoes prefer soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8, so you may need to add some lime if your soil is too acidic.

Dig a hole deep enough to bury the root ball of your tomato plant, leaving only the top two sets of leaves above ground. Water your plant well and add a layer of mulch to help keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.

Choosing Varieties

There are many varieties of tomatoes to choose from, each with their own characteristics and growing requirements. Some popular varieties for New York include:

Early Girl - produces fruit quickly and is resistant to disease

Roma - great for canning and making sauces

Beefsteak - large, juicy fruit

Cherry - small, sweet fruit that's perfect for snacking

No matter which variety you choose, make sure to choose a disease-resistant variety that's well-suited to your climate.

Maintenance

Once your tomato plants are in the ground, you'll need to take care of them to ensure a bountiful harvest. Here are a few tips for maintaining your tomatoes:

Water regularly but don't let the soil get waterlogged

Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks

Support your plants with stakes or cages

Remove any diseased or damaged leaves

Watch out for pests like tomato hornworms and aphids

With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a delicious crop of tomatoes all summer long.