Can You Still Plant Tomatoes in September?

September is traditionally seen as the end of the growing season for many garden plants, including tomatoes. However, with the availability of hardy, late-ripening tomato varieties and warm-weather gardening techniques, it is possible to continue planting tomatoes well into September and even early October in some areas.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

When selecting tomato varieties for late-season planting, look for types that are specifically bred for cooler temperatures, such as Siberian or Black Krim. These varieties are more likely to produce fruit even in cooler weather and will continue to ripen even as the days grow shorter. You can also opt for cherry tomatoes, which tend to ripen faster than larger varieties.

Planting Techniques

When planting tomatoes in September, it is important to choose the sunniest and warmest spot in your garden. You can also try using water-filled jugs or plastic coverings to retain heat and protect the plants from cooler temperatures. Late-season tomatoes should be planted deeper than early-season plants, with at least two-thirds of the plant buried. This allows the plant to produce more roots and absorb nutrients more effectively, aiding in the ripening process.

Caring for Late-Season Tomatoes

Proper care is essential for late-season tomato plants. Keep the soil moist and provide your plants with regular fertilization to ensure they have the nutrients they need to produce fruit. You can also hand-pollinate flowers as the days grow shorter to encourage fruiting. Prune the plants to remove any yellowing or diseased leaves, and remove any flowers or small fruit that are unlikely to ripen fully before the end of the season to allow the plant to focus its energy on the larger, healthy fruits.

Harvesting and Storage

Tomatoes should be harvested regularly as they ripen in order to encourage the plant to continue producing fruit. Late-season tomatoes may not reach the same size as those harvested earlier in the summer, but they will still be delicious and flavorful. If you find yourself with an excess of tomatoes at the end of the season, you can freeze or can them to enjoy throughout the winter months.

Conclusion

While September is generally considered the end of the growing season for many plants, including tomatoes, it is possible to continue planting and harvesting these tasty fruits well into the fall. With careful selection of varieties and attention to planting and care techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes even late into the growing season.