When is it Too Late to Plant Tomatoes in Missouri?

Tomatoes are a popular garden plant in Missouri, providing a delicious taste to many home-cooked meals. However, planting tomatoes can be a daunting task, as knowing the right time to plant them is crucial to ensure a successful yield of juicy, flavorful tomatoes.

The Best Time to Plant Tomatoes in Missouri

The best time to plant tomatoes in Missouri is typically between mid-April and early June. This time frame allows the young tomato plants to establish healthy roots and grow vigorously throughout the growing season. However, the ideal planting time can vary depending on a few factors.

Factors to Consider when Planting Tomatoes

One factor to consider is the growing zone in Missouri. The state is divided into three zones, with zone 6 in the north, zone 7 in the central region, and zone 8 in the south. Each zone has its own unique climate and weather patterns that can affect the ideal planting time for tomatoes.

The second factor to consider is the variety of tomato. There are two types of tomato plants, determinate and indeterminate. Determinate varieties grow to a set height and produce their fruit all at once, while indeterminate varieties continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the entire growing season. Determinate tomatoes are typically planted earlier in the season, while indeterminate varieties can be planted later.

When is it Too Late to Plant Tomatoes in Missouri?

If you have missed the ideal planting time for tomatoes, you may be wondering if it is too late to plant them. Typically, it is too late to plant tomatoes in Missouri after mid-July. By this time, the growing season is well underway, and the hot weather can make it difficult for young tomato plants to establish healthy roots.

However, if you live in southern Missouri and have an extended growing season, you may be able to plant tomatoes as late as early August. This window of opportunity may allow for a successful tomato harvest in the fall.

Tips for Late-Season Tomato Planting

If you decide to plant tomatoes later in the season, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a successful yield:

Choose determinate varieties that will fruit quickly.

Use a high-quality fertilizer to help the plants establish roots quickly.

Use shade cloth or other methods to protect young plants from hot afternoon sun.

Water plants regularly to prevent them from drying out during hot weather.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a beloved garden crop in Missouri, providing a delicious taste to home-cooked meals. Knowing the best time to plant them is key to ensuring a successful harvest. If you miss the ideal planting time, it is still possible to plant tomatoes later in the season, but it is important to keep in mind the factors that can affect their success.