Is it Too Late to Plant Tomatoes in Ohio?

For many gardeners in Ohio, the urge to grow juicy, ripe tomatoes is strong - and for good reason. Ohio's climate is perfect for growing juicy, delicious tomatoes, as long as they are planted at the right time. But, if you missed the traditional planting window, is it too late to plant tomatoes in Ohio?

Understanding the Traditional Planting Window

For Ohio gardeners, the traditional planting window for tomatoes is usually between mid-May and early June. During this time, the soil has warmed up and the threat of frost has passed, creating ideal growing conditions for tomato plants. Planting within this window gives your tomato plants the best chance of growing strong and healthy, and delivering a bountiful harvest.

Planting Outside the Traditional Window

If you missed the traditional planting window, all hope is not lost. While the timing may not be optimal, planting tomatoes in Ohio after mid-June can still yield a decent crop. However, you should be aware that the shorter growing season and higher temperatures can present some challenges that you'll need to overcome in order to succeed.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties

If you decide to plant tomatoes in Ohio after the traditional planting window, it is important to choose the right tomato varieties. Opt for varieties that have shorter maturity times, as they will be more likely to mature before the first frost hits. Examples of good choices include Early Girl, Stupice, and Sub-Arctic Plenty.

Add Compost to the Soil

When planting tomatoes in Ohio outside the normal planting window, you'll need to give your plants a little extra TLC. Add a good dose of compost to the soil before planting to provide much-needed nutrients to the plants. This will help them grow stronger and better withstand the heat and sun.

Mulch and Water Regularly

Tomatoes planted later in the season will need a little extra help to retain moisture, so be sure to mulch around the base of the plants. This will help the soil retain moisture, even during hot Ohio summers. You'll also need to water your plants regularly -- about twice a week -- to keep them healthy and hydrated.

Protect Your Plants

As your tomato plants grow, keep an eye out for pests and other plant diseases that can take hold. Your plants may be especially vulnerable if they were planted outside the traditional window, so be sure to take steps to protect them. Consider using natural pest control options like neem oil or insecticidal soap, and keep an eye out for signs of disease like yellowing leaves or stunted growth.

Conclusion

While it is best to plant tomatoes in Ohio during the traditional planting window, you can still get a decent crop even if you missed it. By choosing the right tomato varieties, amending the soil with compost, mulching and watering regularly, and protecting your plants from pests and disease, you can enjoy delicious, ripe tomatoes throughout the summer and into the fall.