Will 37 Degrees Kill Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are one of the most widely cultivated vegetables in the world. They are known for their sweet and juicy taste, which is why they are a popular ingredient in many dishes. However, like all plants, tomatoes are not immune to the effects of weather conditions. Therefore, many gardeners wonder if temperatures that are too high can kill tomato plants. In this article, we'll delve deeper into this question and provide you with the information you need to protect your precious tomato plants.

What Happens to Tomato Plants in High Temperature?

The ideal temperature for tomato plant growth is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. If the temperature goes above this range, the plant will start to experience stress. When a tomato plant is exposed to high temperatures, it loses water rapidly through transpiration. As a result, the plant becomes dehydrated and its growth is stunted. Additionally, the high temperature can cause the plant's flowers to drop off, leading to a lower yield.

Can 37 Degrees Kill Tomato Plants?

The short answer is no, 37 degrees Fahrenheit will not kill a tomato plant. In fact, tomato plants can survive and even thrive in colder temperatures, as long as they are not exposed to frost. However, 37 degrees is still a low temperature for tomato plants, and if they are constantly exposed to temperatures around that range, their growth and productivity will be affected. This is because the cold temperatures slow down the plant's metabolic processes, causing it to grow slower and produce fewer fruits.

How to Protect Tomato Plants from High Temperature?

If you live in an area where the temperature frequently goes above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, you can take steps to protect your tomato plants from the heat. Here are some tips:

Water your plants deeply and avoid watering them during the day as the water can scorch the foliage.

Provide your plants with shade. You can use a shade cloth or build a temporary shade structure to protect your plants from direct sunlight.

Use mulch around the base of your plants. This will help to conserve moisture in the soil and keep the roots cool.

Choose varieties of tomato plants that are resistant to heat stress. Some good options include Heatwave II, Solar Fire, and Summer Sweetheart.

Conclusion

Tomato plants are hardy and can survive a range of temperatures, but they still need the ideal growing conditions to produce healthy and plentiful fruits. While 37 degrees Fahrenheit won't kill a tomato plant, it can still impact its productivity if the temperature remains consistently low. By following the tips mentioned above, you can help your tomato plants endure high temperatures and produce delicious fruits for you to enjoy.