Can Tomato Plants Tolerate 40 Degrees?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in gardens worldwide. They are easy to grow and produce delicious fruits for cooking and eating. However, the temperature can affect their growth and quality. So, can tomato plants tolerate 40 degrees Celsius?

Tomatoes and Temperature

Tomato plants prefer moderate temperatures between 21 to 24 degrees Celsius. A temperature range between 18 to 30 degrees Celsius is suitable for tomato growth and maximum yield. If the temperature goes below 10 degrees Celsius, it can cause chilling injury, which results in white spots on leaves and fruit deformities. On the other hand, high temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius can cause heat stress that affects the plant's productivity and fruit quality. So, can tomato plants tolerate 40 degrees Celsius?

Heat Tolerance of Tomato Plants

Tomato plants can tolerate high temperatures up to a certain limit. However, that limit depends on the variety and the stage of growth. Mature plants are more heat-tolerant than young plants. According to research, some tomato varieties can tolerate heat up to 40 degrees Celsius, but others show a decline in growth and yield even at 35 degrees Celsius. The heat tolerance of tomato plants can be improved by providing proper irrigation, mulching, shading, and increasing air circulation.

Effects of High Temperature on Tomatoes

High temperature can cause several physiological and biochemical changes in tomato plants, affecting yield and fruit quality. Some effects of high temperature on tomatoes are:

Reduced photosynthesis: High temperature can reduce the photosynthesis rate, which affects the plant's growth and yield.

Fruit cracking: Sudden high temperatures can cause fruit cracking, which makes the fruit unsellable.

Blossom-end rot: High temperature can cause blossom-end rot, a condition in which black, sunken lesions appear on the fruit's bottom.

Poor fruit quality: High temperature can cause poor fruit quality, such as reduced size, color, and flavor.

Premature ripening: High temperature can cause premature ripening of tomatoes, which reduces their storage life.

Tips for Growing Tomatoes in Hot Weather

Here are some tips for growing tomatoes in hot weather:

Choose heat-tolerant varieties: When selecting tomato varieties, choose ones that are heat-tolerant and suitable for your location.

Provide shade: Shade the tomato plants during the hottest part of the day to reduce heat stress.

Water regularly: Water the plants deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist and prevent water stress.

Mulch the soil: Mulch the soil around the plants to retain soil moisture and reduce soil temperature.

Provide good air circulation: Provide good air circulation around the plants to reduce heat stress and prevent disease.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that can be grown in various conditions. However, high temperature can affect their growth and yield. Tomatoes can tolerate high temperatures up to a certain limit, depending on the variety and the stage of growth. Proper irrigation, shading, mulching, and air circulation can help improve their heat tolerance. By applying these tips, you can grow healthy and productive tomato plants even in hot weather.