When to Plant Tomatoes Outside in Salt Lake City

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in gardens across the United States, and Salt Lake City is no exception. However, knowing when to plant your tomatoes is critical to their success. Here is everything you need to know about planting tomatoes outside in Salt Lake City:

Choosing the Right Time

The most crucial consideration when planting tomatoes outside is the frost date in your area. In Salt Lake City, the last frost date is typically around May 10th. This means that you should wait until after this date to plant your tomatoes outside.

An exception to this recommendation is if you have a protected area or greenhouse where you can start your tomatoes earlier. If so, it is possible to plant tomatoes as early as mid-April.

Preparing Your Soil

After you have determined the right time to plant your tomatoes, you need to prepare the soil. Start by digging a hole for each tomato plant. Each hole should be deep enough to cover the root ball of the plant entirely.

Once you have your holes dug, add a cup of bone meal, which is rich in phosphorus, to the bottom of the hole. Mix the bone meal into the soil before planting your tomato plants.

Planting Your Tomatoes

After you have prepared your garden bed, it is time to plant your tomatoes. First, remove the bottom leaves from the tomato plant's stem. This allows the plant to focus its energy on developing the root system, rather than the leaves.

Next, gently place the tomato plant in the hole, making sure to cover the entire root system with soil. Firmly press the soil around the plant, eliminating any air pockets.

Maintaining Your Tomatoes

Once your tomatoes are planted, you must maintain them correctly. Tomatoes need regular watering, and you should keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Too much water can lead to root rot, so be careful not to overwater your plants.

In addition to watering, you should also fertilize your tomato plants. One of the best fertilizers for tomatoes is a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You should apply this fertilizer every two weeks throughout the growing season.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes in Salt Lake City can be a highly rewarding experience. However, it is crucial to know when to plant them to ensure their success. Remember to choose the right time, prepare your soil, plant your tomatoes correctly, and maintain them throughout the growing season.