When to Plant Tomatoes in South Jersey

South Jersey is a great place to grow tomatoes, with its long, warm growing season and fertile soil. However, planting at the wrong time can ruin your chances of a good harvest. In this article, we will explore the best time to plant tomatoes in South Jersey.

Choosing the Right Variety

Before you decide when to plant your tomatoes in South Jersey, you need to choose the right variety. Some tomatoes do better in cooler weather, while others thrive in the heat. Look for varieties that are labeled as "heat-tolerant" or "heat-resistant," such as Solar Fire or Sun Gold. These varieties will do well in South Jersey's hot and humid summers.

Start Indoors

The best way to give your tomato plants a head start is to start them indoors. Plant the seeds six to eight weeks before the last frost date in your area. In South Jersey, the last frost date is usually around the second week of April. Starting your tomato seeds indoors will give them plenty of time to grow strong and healthy before planting them in your garden.

Planting Outdoors

Once your tomato seedlings have grown to about six inches tall, they are ready to be planted outdoors. The ideal time to plant tomatoes in South Jersey is two weeks after the last frost date, which is around the end of April. This is when the soil has warmed up enough for tomatoes to grow and the risk of frost is low. Be sure to choose a sunny spot in your garden, as tomatoes need at least six hours of sunlight every day.

Caring for Your Tomato Plants

Tomatoes need regular care to grow strong and healthy. Water your plants deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is very hot and dry. Fertilize your plants every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer. You may also want to stake or cage your plants to keep them from bending or breaking under the weight of the fruit.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

In South Jersey, tomatoes are usually ready to harvest in late July or early August. Look for tomatoes that are firm, red, and plump. Gently twist the fruit from the vine to avoid damaging the plant. If you have a large harvest, you can preserve your tomatoes by canning, freezing, or drying them for later use.

Conclusion

Now that you know when to plant tomatoes in South Jersey, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, fresh tomatoes all summer long. Remember to choose the right variety, start your seedlings indoors, plant in a sunny spot, and care for your plants regularly. Happy growing!