When Can You Plant Tomatoes Outside in Zone 7

Tomatoes are a favorite vegetable for many gardeners, and for good reason. They are easy to grow and produce a bountiful harvest throughout the summer. However, the key to success with growing tomatoes is knowing the best time to plant them outside. If you live in Zone 7, which covers much of the Southeastern United States, you'll need to pay attention to several factors when deciding when to plant your tomatoes.

Frost-Free Date

The first thing you need to consider when planting tomatoes in Zone 7 is the frost-free date for your area. This is the date when the last expected frost of the winter season has passed, and it's safe to plant tender crops like tomatoes outside. In Zone 7, the average frost-free date is around April 15th, but it can vary depending on your location. You can check with your local cooperative extension office or garden center to determine the frost-free date for your specific area.

Soil Temperature

Another important factor to consider when planting tomatoes outside in Zone 7 is soil temperature. Tomatoes prefer warm soil, with a minimum temperature of around 55°F (13°C) before planting. This temperature is important for proper seed germination, root growth, and overall plant development. You can use a soil thermometer to determine the temperature of your soil. If the temperature is too low, you can warm the soil by covering the planting area with black plastic for a week or two before planting.

Varieties of Tomatoes

When choosing tomatoes to plant in Zone 7, it's important to select varieties that are best suited to your growing conditions. Indeterminate tomatoes, which continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season, are the best choice for Zone 7. Some popular indeterminate varieties of tomatoes include 'Big Boy,' 'Better Boy,' and 'Cherokee Purple.' Determinate varieties, which produce most of their fruit at once and then stop growing, can also be grown in Zone 7, but they tend to have a shorter harvest window.

Planting and Care

Once you've determined the best time to plant your tomatoes and have selected your varieties, it's time to get to work. Start by preparing your soil by removing any weeds or debris, and then amend it with compost or other organic matter. Plant your tomatoes in a sunny location, spacing them about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) apart, and water them deeply. As the plants grow, provide support with stakes or cages to keep the plants upright and prevent them from flopping over. Tomatoes also need regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning to ensure a healthy and productive harvest.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes in Zone 7 can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to know the best time to plant and care for them properly. By considering factors like the frost-free date, soil temperature, and tomato varieties, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes throughout the summer season.