Are you unsure when to plant tomatoes? There is no set answer. Many factors figure into this question. Here are some interesting things to look at.<\/p>\n
Your location<\/p>\n
The zone that you live in is very important. Climate is vital to your tomato crop. You may live in an area where you can grow them all year long. For example, a very warm climate will allow you to pick whatever time of year that you like. You will have an extended growing season.<\/p>\n
In the United States the zones are numbered two through ten. Two is the coldest and ten is the warmest. The zones are separated by the average annual low temperature. Zone two has an average low of minus 40F. Zone ten has an average low of 40F. Each zone is separated by ten degrees Fahrenheit.<\/p>\n
Do you know your zone? If not, you can easily find it online. Search for growing or frost zones. While online, check for the recommendations for planting in your zone. You may live in zone 5. That is the upper Midwest. Memorial Day is a common time to start tomato plants. Yet, many people feel that mid May is also a good time.<\/p>\n
Additional factors<\/p>\n
There are other considerations, also. Seasons will vary. It is a good idea to check the long range weather forecast beforehand. If you are unsure, wait a week or so. This will make your crop a little late. However, it is better to be late than lose your entire crop.<\/p>\n
Do not forget other factors like maturation time. You will get some tomato crops in sixty days. Some may not be ready until one hundred days. This is a big difference. Early crops are a good choice, the farther north you live. You will have no problem setting early crops out in mid June, for example.<\/p>\n
Do not forget to ask people that know. Check with neighbors that have their own gardens. Many of them have done this for many years. You might consider visiting your local garden center. Someone there may be knowledgeable.<\/p>\n
Starting seeds<\/p>\n
You may wish to start your tomato crop from seeds. This usually means starting them inside your home. They should be at least six weeks old when you set them out. It may take up to two weeks for the seeds to germinate. This is a total of eight weeks. Do you want to start your garden on Memorial Day? You better start your seeds by late March.<\/p>\n
Early harvest<\/p>\n
Do you want some early crops? It is OK to set a few out several weeks early. If you get a cold snap, you can cover them. Even if you lose, them, it is no big deal.<\/p>\n
Summary<\/p>\n
When do you start your tomatoes? This will depend on the zone that you live in. It will also depend on the time it takes them to mature. Some will be ready in as early as 60 days. Some may take as long as 100 days. Check with people in your area that are knowledgeable. If you unsure, error on the side of caution and wait an extra week or so. If you want early crops, set a few extras out a few weeks early. If you lose them, it is no big deal.<\/p>\n