Can You Still Plant Tomatoes in August?

August is usually considered as the end of the gardening season, with many vegetable gardens winding down and the harvest ready to be picked. But if you're a tomato lover, that doesn't mean you can't still plant a few more this late in the season. So, can you still plant tomatoes in August? The answer is yes!

The Best Tomatoes to Plant in August

If you want to plant tomatoes in August, it's important to choose the right varieties to ensure a successful crop. Some of the best tomatoes to plant in August include cherry tomatoes, determinate tomatoes, and early maturing tomatoes. These varieties will mature faster and produce a good crop before the first frost hits.

The Importance of Soil Temperature

When planting tomatoes in August, you need to pay close attention to the soil temperature. Tomato seeds and seedlings prefer soil temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. If the soil is too warm, the roots won't develop properly, and if it's too cold, the seeds won't germinate. Use a soil thermometer to ensure that the soil temperature is ideal before planting.

How to Plant Tomatoes in August

Follow these simple steps to plant tomatoes in August:

Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 8-12 inches and adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil structure and fertility.

If planting seedlings, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and gently remove the seedling from its container, being careful not to damage the roots.

If planting seeds, make a trench that is 1 inch deep and space the seeds 2-3 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and water well.

Water the plants regularly, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.

If necessary, add support for the plants to prevent them from falling over as they grow.

Caring for Tomatoes Planted in August

Once you've planted your tomatoes, it's important to care for them properly to ensure a good crop. Here are some tips:

Water regularly to ensure that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Mulch the plants to help conserve moisture and control weeds.

Apply fertilizer when the plants are 6-8 inches tall and again when the fruit starts to set.

Prune the plants to encourage good air circulation and prevent diseases.

Remove any dead or diseased foliage to prevent the spread of disease.

Harvesting Tomatoes Planted in August

Tomatoes planted in August will usually mature in 55-75 days, depending on the variety. You can tell they're ready when they turn the appropriate color (red, yellow, or green), feel slightly soft to the touch, and come off the plant easily. Harvest your tomatoes regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruit.

The Verdict

So, can you still plant tomatoes in August? Absolutely! By choosing the right varieties, paying attention to soil temperature, and following good planting and care practices, you can enjoy fresh homegrown tomatoes well into the fall.