Can You Still Buy Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a staple of the summer garden. With their juicy, sweet fruit and ease of growth, they provide home gardeners with a great source of fresh produce. But with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, many people wonder if they can still buy tomato plants. The answer is yes, and in this article, we'll explore some of the ways you can still get your hands on these juicy little vegetables.

Buy From a Local Nursery/Plant Shop

One of the best ways to purchase tomato plants is to visit your local nursery or plant shop. These places typically stock a wide variety of plants, including vegetable starts like tomato plants. Many places have adopted new procedures to ensure a safe shopping experience, such as online ordering, curbside pickup, and limited in-store capacity. Contact your local nursery or plant shop to learn more about their policies and how you can buy tomato plants from them.

Visit a Farmer's Market

Another option for buying tomato plants is to visit a local farmer's market. These markets typically operate outdoors, allowing for social distancing, and you can find a variety of fresh produce and plants from local vendors. Some markets may have specific guidelines in place for shoppers, such as wearing masks or limiting the number of people allowed in at one time, so be sure to check the market's website or social media pages for any rules or regulations before visiting.

Order Online

If you are not comfortable leaving your home to shop for tomato plants, consider ordering them online. Many online nurseries and seed stores offer a wide selection of tomato plants, including heirloom varieties that may be hard to find in local stores. Additionally, online shopping allows you to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase. Your plants will be shipped directly to your door, so you can get started on your garden right away.

Grow Your Own From Seed

If you can't find tomato plants for sale or simply prefer to grow your own from seed, you can do so easily. Tomato seeds are readily available for purchase online or in stores, and they are relatively easy to grow. Start your seeds indoors in the early spring, and transplant the seedlings to your garden once the weather heats up. Growing your own tomato plants can be a rewarding experience, and you'll have a sense of pride knowing you started them from scratch.

Final Thoughts

While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we shop for many things, tomato plants are still readily available for purchase. Whether you choose to visit a local nursery or plant shop, order online, or grow your own from seed, you can enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit of your labor all summer long. With a little planning and research, you can find the perfect tomato plants for your garden and start enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time.