When do you move tomato plants outside?

Tomatoes are a warm-season crop that thrives under full sunlight and warm temperatures. After starting the tomato seeds indoors, one may be excited to take his young tomato plants outside as soon as possible. But, when exactly do tomato plants go outside? Well, the answer is not a straightforward one, but it depends on several factors.

The average last frost date

The first factor that determines when to move tomato plants outside is the average last frost date in your area. Tomato plants are tender and cannot tolerate frost, so planting them outside before the last frost date can be detrimental. Consult with your local Cooperative Extension Office or Weather Bureau to obtain this date for your area. In most cases, it is safe to plant tomatoes outside about 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost date.

The soil temperature

The second factor that determines when to move your tomato plants outside is the soil temperature. Tomatoes require warm soil temperatures to grow, and planting them in cold soil can slow down their growth or even cause them to die. The ideal soil temperature for tomato planting is around 60°F (15°C). Use a soil thermometer to check the soil temperature. If it is still too cold, you may need to wait a bit longer to plant your tomatoes outside. Alternatively, you can warm up the soil by using black plastic or covering the soil with a cloche or row cover.

The size and health of your tomato plants

The third factor that determines when to move tomato plants outside is their size and health. If your tomato plants are still small and fragile, they may struggle to tolerate outdoor conditions such as wind and direct sunlight. On the other hand, if your plants are big and healthy, they are more likely to thrive outdoors. As a general rule, your tomato plants should have at least two or three sets of true leaves and a sturdy stem before transplanting them outside.

The availability of support structures

Finally, the availability of support structures is another factor to consider when moving tomato plants outside. Tomato plants need support to grow upright and produce good-quality fruits. If you plan to use stakes or cages to support your tomato plants, make sure you have them ready before transplanting your tomato plants outside. This will help prevent damage to your plants and reduce the risk of disease.

Conclusion

Moving tomato plants outside is an exciting event for gardeners, but it requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure their success. By checking the average last frost date, soil temperature, size and health of your tomato plants, and availability of support structures, you can plant your tomatoes outside at the right time for a bountiful harvest.