When to Plant Tomatoes Outside in Seattle

Seattle's climate can be a bit tricky when it comes to planting tomatoes outdoors. Tomato plants require warm weather and sunlight to grow properly, which can be difficult to find in Seattle. However, there are steps you can take to ensure your tomato plants have the best chance of thriving in Seattle's environment.

Choosing the Right Time to Plant

Timing is everything when it comes to planting tomatoes outdoors in Seattle. You'll want to wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit before planting. This typically happens in late May, although it can vary depending on the weather.

Once the soil has warmed up, you can start planting your tomato plants outdoors. However, it's important to choose the right variety of tomato plant for Seattle's climate. Look for varieties that are specifically bred to withstand cooler temperatures and have a shorter growing season. Some good options for Seattle include Early Girl, Stupice, and Glacier tomatoes.

Preparing Your Garden

Before planting your tomato plants, you'll want to make sure your garden is ready for them. This means clearing out any weeds or debris in the area where you plan to plant the tomatoes. You'll also want to enrich the soil with compost or other organic materials to help your tomato plants grow strong and healthy.

When planting your tomato plants, make sure to space them out adequately. Most tomato plants need at least two feet of space between them to grow properly. If you're planting multiple rows of tomatoes, make sure to leave enough space between the rows as well.

Caring for Your Tomato Plants

Once your tomato plants are in the ground, it's important to take good care of them to ensure they thrive in Seattle's climate. Here are some tips to help your tomato plants grow strong and healthy:

Water your tomato plants regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilize your tomato plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Stake or cage your tomato plants to help them grow upright and stay off the ground. This will prevent disease and make it easier to harvest the tomatoes.

Watch your tomato plants for signs of pests or disease. Common tomato pests in Seattle include aphids, slugs, and tomato hornworms.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

Depending on the variety of tomato plant you choose, you can expect to start harvesting your tomatoes in mid to late summer. When picking your tomatoes, make sure to harvest them when they're ripe but still firm. Overripe tomatoes can be prone to disease and mold.

If you have more tomatoes than you know what to do with, consider preserving them by canning, drying, or freezing. This will allow you to enjoy your fresh, homegrown tomatoes all year round.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes outside in Seattle can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right preparation and care, you can grow healthy, delicious tomatoes in your own backyard. By choosing the right time to plant, preparing your garden, and caring for your tomato plants throughout the growing season, you'll be able to enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, homegrown tomatoes.