When to Start Tomato Plants from Seeds Indoors

If you're planning to grow tomatoes in your garden, starting the seeds indoors is a great way to get a head start on the season. But when should you start tomato plants from seeds indoors? Let's take a closer look at the best time to start tomato seeds indoors and some tips to get the most out of your plants.

Choosing the Right Timing

The ideal time to start tomato seeds indoors depends on your local climate and the specific variety of tomato you're growing. In general, you'll want to start your seeds about 6 to 8 weeks before your local planting date.

If you're not sure when your local planting date is, look up your USDA hardiness zone and check local gardening resources for planting calendars. For example, in zone 5, which includes parts of the Midwest and Northeast, the average last frost date is usually around May 15. Therefore, the best time to start tomato seeds in zone 5 is usually around early April.

Preparing Your Seeds

Before you start your tomato seeds, be sure to select high-quality seeds from a reputable supplier. Tomatoes also need a nutrient-rich soil mix to get off to a good start. Consider buying a pre-made seed starting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.

Starting Your Seeds

To start your tomato seeds, fill small pots or trays with your soil mix and make a small hole in the center of each one. Place one or two seeds in each hole, cover them with soil, and water gently. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide plenty of light and warmth (around 70-80°F) to encourage germination.

Once your seeds have sprouted, thin them to one plant per pot or space them at least 2 to 3 inches apart if using a tray. Keep your plants well-watered and provide additional light if necessary. You can use grow lights or place your plants in a bright window with southern exposure.

Moving Your Plants Outdoors

Once your tomato plants have grown to be about 6 to 8 inches tall, you can start hardening them off to prepare for their move to the garden. Hardening off involves gradually exposing your plants to outdoor conditions, such as wind and sunlight, over the course of about a week.

To harden off your plants, start by placing them outdoors in a sheltered, shady spot for a few hours each day. Gradually increase their exposure to direct sunlight and wind over the week. By the end of the week, your plants should be ready to transplant into the garden.

Conclusion

Starting tomato plants from seeds indoors is a great way to get a head start on your homegrown tomato harvest. Just be sure to choose the right timing for your local climate, prepare your seeds and soil properly, and give your plants plenty of light and warmth to get started. With the right care, you'll be enjoying fresh, delicious tomatoes all summer long!