Will My Tomato Plants Survive 50 Degrees in a Greenhouse?

Greenhouses are a great way to extend the growing season for tomatoes and other plants. However, it's important to maintain proper environmental conditions to ensure the survival and growth of your plants. One question many greenhouse growers may have is whether their tomato plants can survive temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Effects of Temperature on Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are warm-season plants that thrive in temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When exposed to cooler temperatures, several physiological processes within the plant are affected. For example, the uptake of water and nutrients by the roots slows down, and photosynthesis in the leaves slows down as well. The plant's metabolism also slows down, which can lead to stunted growth and delayed maturation.

Greenhouse Temperature Management

To ensure healthy tomato plants, it's crucial to maintain a consistent temperature within the greenhouse. Ideally, the temperature in a tomato greenhouse should stay between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and not drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. In general, cool temperatures are more of a threat to plants than warm temperatures. However, temperatures that are too high can also lead to problems such as sunscald and blossom drop.

Heating Your Greenhouse

If your greenhouse is not able to maintain the required temperature range naturally, you may need to provide supplemental heating. This can be done using a variety of methods, including electric heaters or propane heaters. However, it's important to ensure that the heating source you choose is safe, reliable, and does not emit harmful gases or chemicals that could harm your plants or contaminate the environment.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants

Although tomato plants can survive temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it's important to take steps to protect them when the temperature drops. One effective method is to cover your plants with a lightweight, breathable fabric such as row cover material or frost blanket. These materials provide a layer of insulation that helps to trap heat and prevent rapid temperature drops.

In addition to covering your plants, you may also want to consider using a mulch material around the base of each plant. Mulch will help to retain heat and moisture in the soil, creating a more stable growing environment for your plants.

Conclusion

In general, it's best to avoid exposing tomato plants to temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit for any extended period. With proper management and supplemental heating, you can keep your greenhouse at a consistent temperature and ensure healthy growth for your tomato plants. And remember, taking steps to protect your plants during cold snaps can help to prevent damage and ensure a successful harvest.