Do Tomato Plants Need to be Covered?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops for home gardeners. They are relatively easy to grow and can produce a bounty of fruit if cared for properly. One question that many people have is whether or not tomato plants need to be covered. The answer is not always clear-cut and depends on several factors. Let’s explore some of the reasons why tomato plants may need to be covered and when it may be best to leave them uncovered.

Reasons to Cover Tomato Plants

There are several reasons why you may want to consider covering your tomato plants. Some of these include:

Protect From Frost

Tomatoes are warm-weather plants and are sensitive to frost. If you live in an area that experiences frost, covering your tomato plants may be necessary to protect them. Frost can damage or kill tomato plants, and covering them can help keep them warm and safe.

Protect From Pests

Tomatoes are prone to several pests that can wreak havoc on your plants. One of the most common pests is the tomato hornworm. These large green caterpillars can strip a tomato plant of its leaves and fruit in no time. Covering your plants with a lightweight fabric can help keep these pests at bay.

Protect From Disease

Tomatoes are also susceptible to several diseases, including blight and blossom end rot. Covering your plants can help prevent the spread of disease by keeping the leaves dry and preventing the splashing of soil onto the plants.

When to Leave Tomato Plants Uncovered

While there are several reasons to cover your tomato plants, there are also times when it may be best to leave them uncovered. Some of these situations include:

Mature Plants

If your tomato plants are already mature and have a healthy canopy of leaves, they may not need to be covered. Mature plants are better equipped to handle pests and diseases, and covering them can actually trap in moisture and create the perfect environment for disease to thrive.

Mild Weather

If the weather is mild and not expected to dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, your tomato plants may not need to be covered. Tomatoes prefer warm weather, but temperatures below 50 degrees can cause poor growth and decrease fruit production.

Types of Covers for Tomato Plants

If you do decide to cover your tomato plants, there are several types of covers that you can use. Some common covers include:

Row Covers

Row covers are lightweight fabrics that can be draped over plants or rows of plants. They are typically made from materials such as polyester or polypropylene and can be used to protect plants from pests, frost, and wind.

Cloches

Cloches are individual covers that can be placed over individual plants. They can be made from materials such as glass, plastic, or fabric and can provide protection from frost and pests. They can also create a mini greenhouse effect, which can help promote growth.

Greenhouses

If you have the space and resources, a greenhouse can be an excellent way to protect your tomato plants from the elements. Greenhouses provide protection from frost, pests, and disease and can also extend the growing season.

Conclusion

While the answer to whether or not tomato plants need to be covered depends on several factors, it is clear that covering your plants can provide several benefits. Whether you choose to use row covers, cloches, or a greenhouse, protecting your tomato plants can help them thrive and produce a bountiful crop.