When Can You Move Tomato Plants Outside?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in gardens. Their juicy, flavorful fruits are versatile in cooking and salads, making them a staple in many households. If you're growing tomatoes, one of the most critical factors to consider is identifying when to transplant them from their indoor seedlings outdoors. Read on to learn when you can move tomato plants outside and how to prepare them for transplanting.

Starting Tomato Seedlings Indoors

To grow a healthy tomato plant, you can start by sowing seeds indoors. Start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost in your area. This usually means starting seeds in February or March for most regions of the United States.

To start your tomato seedlings indoors, fill small containers with seed-starting soil, dampen the soil, and plant seeds about 1/4 to a 1/2 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and warm, between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, until the seedlings germinate. Once the seedlings emerge, keep them in a warm, sunny spot in the home or under grow lights.

When Can You Move Tomato Plants Outside?

Tomatoes should only be transplanted outdoors when the threat of frost has passed. This is because tomato plants are very sensitive to cold. They need warm soil and air temperature to grow properly. A good rule of thumb is to wait until the air temperature is consistently at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit both day and night before transplanting your seedlings outdoors.

If you're uncertain about the weather conditions in your area, you can use a soil thermometer to check the soil temperature. The ideal soil temperature for tomatoes is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also consult with a local garden center or online source for information about planting schedules in your area.

How to Transplant Your Tomatoes Outside

Before you transplant your tomato seedlings, you should gradually harden off the plants by exposing them to outdoor conditions gradually. Start by setting the plants outside for short periods of time each day, increasing the amount of time each day for about a week. This process helps the plants acclimate to the sunlight, wind, and outdoor temperatures.

When the time is right, transplant your tomatoes outside in a sunny, well-draining location. Make sure to give each plant adequate space to grow, spacing them out about 18 to 24 inches apart. Add compost to the soil and mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water your plants thoroughly once they are in the ground and continue to water them deeply once a week until the fruit begins to ripen.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are easy to grow and add flavor and nutrition to any meal. When transplanting your tomato seedlings outside, take care to harden off the plants gradually and to wait until the danger of frost has passed. Proper planting and care will lead to a bountiful harvest.