Is 39 Degrees Too Cold for Tomato Plants?

As the temperature drops, many growers of tomato plants may begin to worry about whether or not their crops are receiving enough warmth to thrive. When the thermometer dips down to 39 degrees Fahrenheit, it is reasonable to wonder whether or not this is too cold for tomato plants. The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the type of tomato plant, how long the cold temperatures last, and how well you have prepared your plants for the winter ahead.

The Effect of Cold Temperatures on Tomato Plants

Tomato plants are generally very sensitive to cold temperatures. When temperatures drop below freezing, the cells inside the plant can freeze and burst, causing damage that can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventually death. While 39 degrees is not quite cold enough for cells to freeze and burst, it can still damage your tomato plants if they are not properly protected.

Protecting Your Tomato Plants from Cold Temperatures

If you are concerned about the effects of cold temperatures on your tomato plants, there are several steps you can take to help protect them. First, consider planting your tomato plants in a raised bed or container, rather than directly in the ground. This can help provide additional warmth and insulation to the plant's roots. Additionally, covering your plants with a lightweight blanket, tarp, or other type of cover can help trap heat and protect them from the cold.

If you expect the temperatures to drop below 39 degrees, you may also want to consider moving your plants indoors, or into a greenhouse or other protected structure. This can help keep them warm and healthy even during the coldest winter months. If moving your plants is not an option, you may also want to consider using a frost cloth or other type of insulation to protect them from the cold.

The Type of Tomato Plant Matters

It is important to remember that the answer to the question "is 39 degrees to cold for tomato plants?" may depend on the type of tomato plant you are growing. Some tomato plants, such as cherry tomatoes, are more hardy and able to tolerate colder temperatures than others. If you are concerned about your tomato plants surviving the winter, you may want to consider choosing a hardier variety specifically suited for cold weather growing.

The Indeterminate versus Determinate Debate

Another factor to consider when growing tomato plants in cold temperatures is whether you are planting an indeterminate or determinate variety. Indeterminate tomato plants are taller and more vine-like, and they can continue to grow throughout the season. However, they also require more warmth and sunlight in order to thrive.

In contrast, determinate tomato plants grow to a set size and produce fruit all at once. They are shorter and bushier in appearance, and they may be a better option for colder climates or winter growing. If you are concerned about your tomato plants surviving the cold, you may want to consider planting a determinate variety.

In Conclusion

So, is 39 degrees too cold for tomato plants? The answer is not a simple one, as there are many factors that can impact a plant's ability to thrive in cold temperatures. However, by taking steps to protect your plants, choosing the right variety, and paying attention to weather forecasts, you can help ensure that your tomato plants stay strong and healthy all winter long.