When to Plant Tomatoes in Sacramento 2020

Tomatoes are a summer staple in Sacramento gardens. They are easy to grow, take up minimal space and provide a tasty addition to many meals. But, when is the best time to plant tomatoes in Sacramento for the 2020 growing season?

Start Indoors

The first decision you need to make when planning your tomato garden is whether you want to start your plants indoors or outdoors. Starting your tomato seeds indoors gives them a better chance at success. You can control the environment, temperature, moisture and nutrient levels, and protect your plants from pests and diseases. Start your tomato seeds indoors about six weeks before you plan to transplant them outside.

Transplant Outdoors

When transplanting your tomato plants outdoors, the timing is crucial. You want to wait until the danger of frost has passed, but the soil is warm enough to promote growth. In Sacramento, the average last frost date is around April 30, but this can vary depending on your specific location. Aim to transplant your tomato plants outdoors in mid-April to early May.

Choosing the Right Variety

Choosing the right tomato variety is crucial for your success in Sacramento. You want to select varieties that are suited to the local climate and growing conditions. For Sacramento, you want to choose varieties that are heat-tolerant, disease-resistant and produce well in hot weather. Some varieties to consider include: Beefsteak, San Marzano, Roma, and Cherry.

Soil and Fertilization

Tomatoes need fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of nutrients to thrive. Before planting your tomato plants, prepare your soil by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve soil structure and provide a slow-release source of nutrients. Once your plants are established, you can fertilize them every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Water and Maintenance

Finally, tomatoes need plenty of water to grow and produce well. In Sacramento, the dry and hot weather can be a challenge. Provide your tomato plants with consistent moisture, watering deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. In addition to regular watering, you should also keep an eye out for pests and diseases, which can quickly damage your plants. Inspect your plants regularly and promptly address any issues you find.

Overall, planting tomatoes in Sacramento is easy and rewarding. With the right timing, variety selection, soil preparation, and maintenance, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, homegrown tomatoes.