Is It Too Cold to Plant Tomatoes Outside?

Tomatoes are the most commonly grown vegetable in home gardens. These vigorous plants thrive on warm weather and produce delicious fruits that can be eaten fresh, canned, or turned into sauces. However, tomato plants are also sensitive to cold temperatures, which can stunt their growth, delay their development, or even kill them. So, is it too cold to plant tomatoes outside? Let's find out.

The Optimal Temperature Range for Tomatoes

Tomatoes are warm-season plants and require a long growing season to mature. The optimal temperature range for tomato growth is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 27 degrees Celsius). When the temperatures fall outside this range, the tomato plant's growth is compromised. At temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), the tomato plants are dormant, and their fruits won't ripen. If the temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), the tomato plants will freeze and die.

The Average Last Frost Date

The average last frost date is the day when the probability of frost occurring is less than 50%. In other words, it is the date after which there is only a 50-50 chance of frost occurring in your area. The average last frost date varies depending on your location and climate zone. To determine your area's average last frost date, consult your local nursery, agricultural extension office, or weather service.

Protecting Tomato Plants from Cold

If you are eager to plant tomatoes early in the season, despite the possibility of cold weather, there are ways to protect your plants from the chill. You can cover them with plastic sheets, blankets, or cloths to prevent the cold air from touching them. You can also use mulch or organic matter to insulate the soil and keep it warm. When the temperatures rise, you can remove the coverings and let the plants bask in the sunlight.

Choosing Cold-Hardy Tomato Varieties

If you live in a colder climate or want to plant tomatoes early in the season, you can choose cold-hardy tomato varieties that can tolerate lower temperatures. One example is the 'Early Girl' tomato, which produces fruits in just 50 days and can withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). Another option is the 'Roma' tomato, which is a paste tomato and is more resistant to cracking and blossom end rot caused by cold stress. Check with your local nursery or seed supplier for recommendations.

In Conclusion

Planting tomatoes outside can be a rewarding experience, but it requires knowledge and care. To determine if it is too cold to plant tomatoes outside, you need to consider the optimal temperature range for tomato growth, the average last frost date in your area, and the ways to protect your plants from cold. You can also choose cold-hardy tomato varieties that can withstand lower temperatures. If you follow these guidelines, you can enjoy fresh, ripe tomatoes from your own garden throughout the summer.