Is it OK to plant tomatoes now in Arkansas?

If you're planning to grow tomatoes in Arkansas, one of the important questions to consider is the best time to plant. Tomatoes are warm-weather plants that require a certain range of temperature to grow and ripen. If you plant them too early or too late, they may not thrive or produce a good crop. In this article, we'll take a closer look at whether it's OK to plant tomatoes now in Arkansas.

Arkansas planting zones and weather patterns

Before we dive into the answer, let's review a few things about Arkansas planting zones and weather patterns. Arkansas is divided into hardiness zones 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, and 8b. This means that the state can experience a wide range of temperatures, from lows of minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit to highs of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This also means that the timing of planting can vary depending on where you are located in the state.

In general, Arkansas has mild winters and hot summers, with the highest temperatures occurring in July and August. The average frost-free date in most parts of the state is around April 15, although this can vary depending on the location.

Planting tomatoes in Arkansas

So, is it OK to plant tomatoes now in Arkansas? The answer depends on where you are located and what type of tomato you want to grow.

If you are located in southern Arkansas, where the temperatures are warmer, you can start planting tomatoes as early as mid-March. In central Arkansas, mid-April is the best time to plant, while in northern Arkansas, mid-May is more suitable.

It's important to note that there are two types of tomatoes: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate tomatoes are bush-like and produce their fruit in a short period, while indeterminate tomatoes continue producing fruit throughout the growing season. Determinate tomatoes are ideal for early planting, while indeterminate tomatoes are best planted a little later.

Tips for planting tomatoes

Whether you're planting determinate or indeterminate tomatoes, here are a few tips to help ensure a successful harvest:

Choose a sunny spot: Tomatoes need at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Test the soil: Tomatoes prefer soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5. You can test your soil using a soil test kit.

Plant deep: When planting, bury the stem of the tomato plant deep in the soil. This helps the plant establish a strong root system.

Water regularly: Tomatoes need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.

Provide support: Indeterminate tomatoes require support, so make sure to provide stakes, cages, or trellises for the plants to grow on.

Fertilize appropriately: Tomatoes require regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer or add compost to the soil.

Conclusion

In summary, the best time to plant tomatoes in Arkansas depends on where you are located and what type of tomato you want to grow. If you're in southern Arkansas and want to grow determinate tomatoes, you can start planting now. However, if you're in northern Arkansas and want to grow indeterminate tomatoes, it's best to wait until mid-May. Regardless of when you plant, be sure to provide your tomatoes with plenty of sun, water, and nutrients to help them thrive.