Introduction

Tomato plants are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden. However, they are also quite delicate and susceptible to various environmental conditions. One such condition is the temperature, and many gardeners wonder if a temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit will harm their tomato plants. In this article, we will explore this question and provide you with the information you need to keep your tomato plants healthy and thriving.

What happens to tomato plants at low temperatures?

Tomato plants are warm-weather plants and prefer temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature drops below this range, tomato plants can suffer. At temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, tomato plants can experience stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and fruit drop. If the temperature drops to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, the plant can experience frost damage, which can kill the plant or severely limit its ability to produce fruit.

What can you do to protect tomato plants from low temperatures?

If the temperature is expected to drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, you can take steps to protect your tomato plants. Here are some tips:

Cover the plants with a frost cloth or blanket to trap heat around the plant.

Water the plants thoroughly before the temperature drops. This will help the plants retain heat better.

Place a small, low wattage light bulb near the plant. The heat from the bulb will help keep the plant warm.

Move the plants indoors if possible. If you have potted tomato plants, you can move them indoors to a warm, sunny location until the temperature rises again.

Conclusion

When it comes to tomato plants, low temperatures can be a real threat. A temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit can harm tomato plants and cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and fruit drop. If the temperature drops even further, frost damage can occur, posing a severe threat to the plant's survival. If you want to protect your tomato plants from low temperatures, it's best to take preventative measures such as covering the plants, watering them thoroughly, placing a light bulb nearby, or moving them indoors. By doing so, you can ensure that your tomato plants stay healthy and produce a bountiful harvest.