When to Plant Tomatoes in Seattle

Seattle's climate can make it tricky to know exactly when to plant tomatoes to ensure a successful and bountiful harvest. Here are some tips to help you determine the best time to put those tomato seeds in the ground.

Understanding Seattle's Seasons

Seattle's climate can be described as cool and wet. The city experiences a marine west coast climate and is generally cloudy and damp. The winters are mild, though the temperatures can drop to around 28°F during the coldest months (December and January), and there are occasional snowfalls. The spring is cool and damp, while the summers are warm and dry with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F.

Start Indoors

One way to improve your chances of success with tomatoes in Seattle is to start your seeds indoors. This ensures that they get a head start on the growing season and can then be transplanted outdoors once the weather becomes warmer. Start your seeds six to eight weeks before the last spring frost. The ideal temperature for germination is between 60°F and 70°F.

Outdoor Planting

If you're planting tomatoes directly outdoors, wait until the temperature at night consistently rises above 50°F. This is generally in late May or early June in Seattle.

Choose the Right Location

Tomatoes need full sun (at least six to eight hours per day) to thrive. Choose a location that receives plenty of sunshine and is sheltered from strong winds. If possible, plant your tomatoes in raised beds to help with drainage and warmer soil temperatures.

Best Tomatoes for Seattle

Not all tomato varieties are suited for Seattle's climate, which means you need to select those that are. Indeterminate tomatoes (vining tomatoes that grow all season) are best for Seattle's longer growing season. Some varieties that work well in Seattle include Sun Gold, Brandywine, Early Girl, and Big Beef.

Caring for Your Tomatoes in Seattle

Once your tomato plants are in the ground, it's important to take good care of them. Continue to give them plenty of sun and water regularly. To help with soil fertility, mix in some compost or other organic matter. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and act quickly if you notice any issues. By taking good care of your tomatoes, you can expect a healthy and bountiful harvest.

Conclusion

With Seattle's cool and wet climate, knowing when to plant tomatoes can be challenging. But by starting your seeds indoors and choosing the right location and tomato varieties, you can enjoy a successful harvest. Remember to care for your plants well, and you'll be able to enjoy delicious and juicy tomatoes all season long.