Will 46 Degrees Hurt Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are known to be delicate, and their growth can be affected by many factors such as weather, soil, and pests. One of the most important factors in the growth of tomato plants is temperature. Tomatoes thrive in warm temperatures, but when it gets too hot, they can suffer. In this article, we will explore if 46 degrees will hurt tomato plants and what steps you can take to protect them from high temperatures.

What is the Optimal Temperature for Tomato Plants?

The optimal temperature for tomato plants is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night. If the temperature falls below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, tomato plants will stop growing. If the temperature rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the plants will suffer from heat stress, and their growth will slow down or stop.

What Happens When the Temperature Reaches 46 Degrees?

When the temperature reaches 46 degrees Fahrenheit, tomato plants will not be affected directly. However, if the temperature drops below this point or if there is a drastic change in temperature, it can harm the plants. When the temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the plants can suffer from frostbite, and their leaves and fruit can become damaged.

How to Protect Tomato Plants from High Temperatures?

If the temperature rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, tomato plants can suffer from heat stress. To protect them from high temperatures, you can take the following steps:

Water your plants: Tomatoes need plenty of water to thrive, especially during hot weather. Water them deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist.

Mulch your plants: Adding a layer of mulch around your tomato plants will help keep the soil cool and retain moisture.

Provide shade: Tomato plants can benefit from partial shade during the hottest parts of the day. You can use shade cloth or plant them in a location that is shaded in the afternoon.

Avoid fertilizing: Fertilizers can cause tomato plants to grow faster but will make them more susceptible to heat stress. Avoid fertilizing during hot weather.

Conclusion

Tomato plants need warm temperatures to thrive, but when the temperature rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, they can suffer from heat stress. When the temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the plants can suffer from frostbite. However, if the temperature remains around 46 degrees Fahrenheit, tomato plants will not be affected directly. To protect your tomatoes from extreme temperatures, you can water them deeply and regularly, mulch them, provide shade, and avoid fertilizing during hot weather. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your tomato plants grow strong and healthy throughout the season.