When to Put Tomato Plants in a Greenhouse in the UK

Tomatoes are a staple of many gardens in the UK, but they can be a bit tricky to grow in the unpredictable British weather. That's why many gardeners turn to greenhouses to protect their tomato plants from the elements and extend the growing season. But when is the best time to put your tomato plants in the greenhouse?

Choosing Your Tomato Plants

Before you can determine when to put your tomato plants in the greenhouse, you need to choose the right plants. There are many different varieties of tomato plants, and some are better suited for greenhouse cultivation than others. Look for varieties that are naturally resistant to disease and have a compact growth habit, as they will be easier to manage in a confined space.

Preparing Your Greenhouse

Once you have chosen your tomato plants, it's time to prepare your greenhouse. The greenhouse should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before you plant your tomatoes to prevent the spread of disease. You should also make sure that your greenhouse is well-ventilated, as a stagnant environment can lead to fungal growth and other problems.

Sowing Your Tomato Seeds

The ideal time to sow your tomato seeds depends on the variety of tomato and your location in the UK. In general, you will want to sow your seeds in January or February if you live in the south of England, and in February or March if you live in the north. Sow your seeds in seed trays with a good-quality compost and keep them in a warm, bright place until they germinate.

Transplanting Your Tomato Plants

Once your tomato seedlings are large enough, it's time to transplant them into larger pots. You should aim to transplant your tomato plants when they are around 10cm tall and have two sets of true leaves. Transplant them into 10-15cm pots with a good-quality compost, and use a support system such as bamboo canes to keep the plants upright.

Moving Your Tomato Plants to the Greenhouse

The ideal time to move your tomato plants to the greenhouse is when the danger of frost has passed. This is usually in late May or early June in the UK, but it can vary depending on your location and the weather conditions. Make sure your greenhouse is at the correct temperature for your tomato plants, which should be between 18°C and 21°C during the day and no lower than 15°C at night.

Caring for Your Tomato Plants in the Greenhouse

Once your tomato plants are in the greenhouse, you will need to provide them with plenty of care and attention. Water them regularly, but take care not to overwater them as this can lead to fungal diseases. You should also feed your tomato plants weekly with a good-quality tomato fertilizer, and pinch out any side shoots that appear to encourage bushy growth.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

Your tomato plants should start to produce fruit around 12-14 weeks after planting. You can tell when your tomatoes are ripe by their colour, which should be a deep, rich red. Harvest your tomatoes as soon as they are ripe to prevent them from going soft or splitting, and enjoy the fruits of your labour!

In conclusion, the ideal time to put your tomato plants in a greenhouse in the UK is when the danger of frost has passed, usually in late May or early June. However, the specific timing will depend on your location and the weather conditions in your area. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, homegrown tomatoes from your greenhouse.