When to Plant Tomatoes on Cape Cod

Tomatoes are a favorite garden crop for many people on Cape Cod, with their juicy, flavorful fruits perfect for salads, sandwiches, sauces, and more. However, planting tomatoes at the wrong time can result in poor growth, low yields, or even complete failure. Here are some tips on when to plant tomatoes on Cape Cod to ensure a successful crop.

Understanding Cape Cod's Climate

Before deciding when to plant tomatoes, it's important to understand the climate of Cape Cod and how it affects plant growth. Cape Cod has a coastal temperate climate, which means it has moderate temperatures with cooling sea breezes in summer and mild winters.

However, the region is also prone to sudden temperature drops, strong winds, and heavy rains, especially during spring and fall. These weather conditions can affect tomato growth and fruit set, so it's important to plan accordingly.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties

Cape Cod's climate is best suited for tomatoes that mature in the mid-season, as they have enough time to grow and ripen before the cooler temperatures of fall arrive.

Some good options for mid-season tomatoes on Cape Cod include 'Celebrity,' 'Better Boy,' 'Big Beef,' 'Early Girl,' and 'Roma.' These varieties are known for their resistance to diseases, reliable yields, and good flavor.

You can start your own tomato seedlings indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date to get a head start on the season. Alternatively, you can purchase seedlings or plants from a local nursery or garden center.

Planting Tomatoes Outdoors

Tomatoes can be planted outdoors in Cape Cod after the last frost date, which usually occurs in mid-May. However, the soil temperature should be at least 60°F (15.5°C) for optimal growth.

Make sure the planting site has full sun exposure and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Plant your tomato seedlings 2-3 feet apart in rows 3-4 feet apart and bury them up to the first set of leaves to encourage strong root systems.

Water your tomatoes deeply and regularly, but avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks and mulch around the plants to retain moisture and control weeds.

Protecting Tomatoes from Weather and Pests

As mentioned earlier, Cape Cod's weather can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to have some measures in place to protect your tomato plants from sudden drops in temperature or strong winds.

You can use cloths or blankets to cover the plants at night or during cold spells, or set up a temporary greenhouse with PVC pipes and plastic sheeting. Mulching and regular watering can also help regulate soil temperature and moisture.

Tomatoes on Cape Cod are prone to a few common pests, such as tomato hornworms, aphids, and whiteflies. You can use natural pesticides like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control these pests, or consider using companion planting to deter them. For example, planting marigolds or basil near your tomatoes can help repel aphids and whiteflies.

Harvesting and Storing Tomatoes

Most mid-season tomatoes on Cape Cod mature in 70-80 days, meaning you can expect to harvest them from late July to early September. You can tell when your tomatoes are ripe by their color, which should be bright and uniform.

Harvest your tomatoes by gently twisting them off the vine or using a sharp knife. Store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight, and avoid stacking them to prevent bruising. Tomatoes can also be frozen or canned for later use.

By following these tips on when to plant tomatoes on Cape Cod and how to care for them, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, flavorful tomatoes that will make your summer meals even more delicious!