When Do You Plant Tomatoes in Colorado?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular garden crops in Colorado. They are easy to grow, and there is nothing quite like the taste of a homegrown tomato. But in order to have a successful crop, it's important to know when to plant tomatoes in Colorado.

The Best Time to Plant Tomatoes in Colorado

The best time to plant tomatoes in Colorado is in late April or early May, after the threat of frost has passed. Most areas in Colorado have a last frost date sometime in late April, but it's important to check the specific last frost date for your area.

Tomatoes are warm-weather crops and need soil temperatures of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit to germinate. In Colorado, temperatures can still dip below freezing in early spring, so it's important to wait until the danger of frost has passed to plant tomatoes.

How to Prepare Your Garden for Tomatoes

Before planting your tomatoes, you'll want to prepare your garden bed. Tomatoes need well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, you may want to amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

Tomatoes also need full sun, so choose a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so consider fertilizing your soil with a balanced fertilizer before planting.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties for Colorado

When choosing tomato varieties for Colorado, it's important to select those that are adapted to our shorter growing season and cooler temperatures. Determinate varieties, which grow to a certain size and then stop, are often a good choice for Colorado gardens.

Some recommended varieties for Colorado include Early Girl, Celebrity, and Cherokee Purple. These varieties are all relatively early maturing and have good disease resistance.

Caring for Your Tomato Plants

Once your tomato plants are in the ground, it's important to provide them with proper care to ensure a healthy and abundant crop. Water your tomatoes deeply once or twice a week, depending on soil and weather conditions.

Tomatoes are also prone to a number of diseases and pests, including verticillium wilt, blossom end rot, and tomato hornworms. Keep an eye out for any signs of stress or damage, and treat problems promptly to prevent them from spreading.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

In Colorado, tomatoes typically ripen in late July or early August. Once your tomatoes start to turn red, pick them before they are fully ripe and allow them to finish ripening indoors. This helps prevent birds and other animals from eating your tomatoes before you have a chance to enjoy them!

Tomatoes are one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow in Colorado. By planting at the right time, choosing the right varieties, and providing proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest all summer long.