Can Tomato Plants Survive Light Frost?

Tomatoes are warm-season crops that thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 90°F. While they can tolerate colder temperatures, a light frost can cause damage to the plant and its fruit.

What Happens When a Tomato Plant is Exposed to Frost?

When the temperature drops below freezing, the water inside the tomato plant's cells freezes and expands, causing the cell walls to burst. This leads to wilting and damage to the leaves, stems, and eventually the fruit.

However, a light frost, where the temperature drops to just below freezing, may not cause as much damage to the plant. Tomato plants can survive a light frost and continue to produce fruit under certain conditions.

How to Protect Tomato Plants from Light Frost

There are several ways to protect tomato plants from light frost:

Cover the plants with a frost blanket or cloth to provide insulation and protect them from frost damage. Make sure the cover is not touching the plants and is well-secured to prevent pests from getting inside.

Water the plants before the temperature drops. Wet soil holds heat better than dry soil, which can help protect the roots from freezing.

Harvest any ripe or almost ripe tomatoes before a frost. Immature green tomatoes can still mature on the kitchen counter, while frost-damaged tomatoes are likely to spoil.

When to Harvest Tomatoes Before a Frost

Tomatoes will typically ripen within three to five days after they are picked, so it's important to time the harvest correctly. Check the weather forecast and harvest the tomatoes before a predicted light frost if they are:

Turning red, orange, or yellow

Have a mature size and are firm to the touch

Are blemish-free and have no signs of decay or insect damage

Avoid picking tomatoes that are still green and underdeveloped as they may not ripen properly and will likely spoil.

Conclusion

While tomato plants can survive a light frost, it's essential to take precautions to minimize damage. Covering the plants, watering them before the temperature drops, and harvesting ripe tomatoes can help protect them from frost damage. Always check the weather forecast and time your harvest accordingly to ensure your tomatoes reach their full potential.