When to Plant Tomatoes in Western PA

Tomatoes are a staple crop for many gardeners in Western Pennsylvania. However, planting tomatoes too early or too late in the season can lead to disappointing results. Here’s what you need to know about when to plant tomatoes in Western PA.

Choosing the Right Time

The first thing to consider when planting tomatoes in Western PA is the last average frost date in your area. This is usually around May 15th. It’s important to wait until after this date to plant tomatoes because they are very sensitive to cold temperatures.

However, waiting until after the last frost date doesn’t mean that you should rush out to plant your tomatoes. They also need warm soil to grow properly, so wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually happens a few weeks after the last frost date.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your tomatoes, it’s important to prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter. This will help to improve the soil’s structure, fertility, and water-holding capacity.

Tomatoes also prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. You can test your soil’s pH using a home testing kit or by sending a soil sample to a lab for analysis.

Choosing the Right Variety

When selecting tomato varieties to plant in Western PA, consider the length of your growing season. If you have a short growing season, choose varieties that are bred to mature quickly. These include “Early Girl,” “Oregon Spring,” and “Fourth of July.”

If you have a longer growing season, consider planting larger or more flavorful varieties such as “Brandywine,” “Cherokee Purple,” or “Green Zebra.”

Planting Your Tomatoes

When it’s time to plant your tomatoes, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant your tomatoes deep, burying the stem up to the first set of leaves. This will encourage the plant to grow more roots, which will help it to absorb more water and nutrients.

Tomatoes also need support to grow properly. You can use stakes, cages, or trellises to support your plants as they grow.

Caring for Your Tomatoes

After planting your tomatoes, it’s important to keep them well-watered and fed. Tomatoes need an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. They also benefit from regular applications of fertilizer, especially if the soil is poor or if you’re planting in containers.

Tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including tomato hornworms, aphids, and blight. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage or infection and take action early to prevent problems from spreading.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe and the skin has turned a deep, rich color. They should be firm but slightly soft to the touch. If you’re unsure whether or not a tomato is ripe, give it a gentle squeeze. If it feels too firm or too soft, it’s not ready to harvest yet.

Harvest your tomatoes as soon as they are ripe to prevent them from rotting on the vine. If you have more tomatoes than you can eat, consider preserving them by canning, freezing, or drying.

In Conclusion

Tomatoes are a delicious and rewarding crop to grow in Western Pennsylvania. By choosing the right time to plant, preparing your soil, selecting the right varieties, and caring for your plants properly, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, flavorful tomatoes all summer long.