Is it Too Early to Plant Tomatoes Outside in the UK?

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop in the UK. However, the climate here is quite unpredictable and can be quite harsh, which means there is a lot of confusion about the best time to plant tomatoes outside. While there is no definitive answer, there are a few things to consider when deciding whether it is too early to plant tomatoes outside in the UK.

First Frost

One of the most important things to consider when deciding whether it is too early to plant tomatoes outside is the average date of the first frost in your area. Tomatoes are frost-tender plants, and exposure to frost can kill them. Therefore, it is best to wait until after the risk of frost has passed before planting tomatoes outside. In the UK, the last frost usually occurs in late April or early May, although this can vary depending on the location.

Soil Temperature

Another important factor to consider when deciding whether it is too early to plant tomatoes outside is the temperature of the soil. Tomatoes require warm soil in order to thrive, and planting them in soil that is too cold can slow down their growth or even cause them to die. The ideal soil temperature for planting tomatoes is around 18°C (64°F). You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature of your soil before planting. If the temperature is below 10°C (50°F), then it's too cold for tomatoes.

Risk of heavy rain

Tomato plants can suffer from too much water, and heavy rainfall can damage the leaves and fruit of the plant. If you plant your tomatoes outside too early and there is still a risk of heavy rainfall, your tomatoes may not survive. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and wait until the risk of heavy rainfall has passed before planting tomatoes outside.

Planting Options

If you are eager to get started with your tomato garden but are worried about the weather, there are a few options available to you. You can start your tomato plants indoors and then transplant them outside once the weather has improved. Alternatively, you can use a greenhouse or a polytunnel to protect your plants from the elements. This way, you can start your tomato plants earlier in the season, and they will be better protected from the cold and the rain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether it is too early to plant tomatoes outside in the UK depends on a variety of factors, including the last frost date in your area, the soil temperature, and the risk of heavy rainfall. It's important to consider these factors before planting your tomatoes, in order to give them the best chance of success. If you are unsure about whether it is too early to plant tomatoes outside, you can always start them indoors or use a greenhouse or a polytunnel to protect them from the elements.