When do you put tomato plants in the greenhouse?

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable for growing in a greenhouse, as they require warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight. However, it's important to know when to plant them to ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest. In general, the best time to put tomato plants in the greenhouse is in the spring, but there are a few factors to consider.

Temperature

The first thing to consider when planting tomato plants in the greenhouse is temperature. Tomatoes require warm temperatures to grow and thrive, so you'll want to wait until the temperature inside the greenhouse is consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plant them too early, they may become stunted or slow-growing, which can lead to a disappointing harvest.

Soil temperature

In addition to air temperature, it's important to consider the temperature of the soil. Tomatoes prefer warm soil, with temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit being ideal. If your greenhouse soil is too cool, you may want to consider using a heating mat or some other method of warming the soil before planting your tomato plants.

Transplant size

Another factor to consider is the size of the tomato plant you'll be transplanting. It's best to wait until the plants are at least 6-8 inches tall and have multiple sets of leaves. This will give them a better chance of surviving the transplant and adapting to greenhouse conditions. If you're starting your tomato plants from seed, you'll want to give them plenty of time to grow before transplanting them to the greenhouse.

Planting method

Finally, the method you use for planting your tomato plants can also affect when you should put them in the greenhouse. If you plan to transplant them directly into the soil, you'll need to wait until the soil temperature is warm enough. However, if you plan to use containers or grow bags, you can plant them earlier and move them into the greenhouse once the temperature is warm enough.

Conclusion

In summary, the best time to put tomato plants in the greenhouse is when the temperature inside is consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the soil temperature is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the transplant size is 6-8 inches tall with multiple sets of leaves, and the planting method is suitable for the current conditions. Following these guidelines will give your tomato plants the best chance of thriving in the greenhouse and producing a delicious harvest.