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When to Plant Tomatoes in Pennsylvania? (Best Time in PA)
Pennsylvania uses around 4,000 acres of land to grow tomatoes. You can also grow this tasty fruit in your garden.
But you must know the best time to plant tomato plants in Pennsylvania. Tomatoes do not like frost or cold temperatures. Cold weather stops tomatoes from growing correctly.
The excellent time to plant tomato seedlings outside is from May 14 onwards. At this time, the ground is warm enough in many Pennsylvania cities. There is also no more risk of frost.
Best Time to Plant Tomatoes in Pennsylvania
Tomatoes are warm-weather crops. They grow best when temperatures are between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. To keep tomatoes safe from frost, plant them outside two weeks after the last frost date in your city.
For example, in Philadelphia the last frost date is around April 4. Count back 6 to 8 weeks from April 4, from February 7 to February 21.
Start your tomato seeds indoors during this time. Then, transplant the seedlings outside around April 18, when it is warm enough and about two weeks after the last frost.
Tips for Planting and Caring for Tomato Plants in Pennsylvania
It takes tomatoes between 60 to 100 days to grow, from seeds to tomatoes you can pick. This depends on the type of tomato.
Tomatoes are popular garden plants because they are easy to grow. They do not need much special care. Here are some tips for planting tomatoes:
Know Your Tomato Type
There are many types of tomatoes, but they are divided into two main groups:
Determinate tomatoes: These tomatoes only grow to about 3 feet tall. They are suitable for growing in pots and containers. All the tomatoes on these plants ripen at around the same time.
Indeterminate tomatoes: These are vining tomatoes that keep growing taller. They produce tomatoes throughout the whole growing season. Because they get very tall, they need to be staked up.
Prepare the Planting Area
Pick a spot that gets full sun. Tomatoes need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. They also need well-draining soil that is full of nutrients.
Do not plant tomatoes where you grew other nightshade plants before, like peppers, potatoes, and eggplants. This can spread soil diseases to the new plants.
Pay Attention to Temperature and Spacing
Sow or plant tomato seeds when the soil is at 50 degrees F. Temperatures between 65-85 degrees are even better for germination.
When daytime temperatures are around 70-80 degrees F, you can transplant seedlings outside.
But first, you should “harden off” the seedlings for 1-2 weeks. Put them outside for a few hours each day. This allows them to adjust to the outdoor conditions.
Then, plant the seedlings 2-3 feet apart. Plant them 5-6 inches deep in the soil so they can grow strong roots.
Support Your Plants
Tomato plants need support significantly when the tomatoes grow big and heavy. Use stakes, cages, or trellises to hold up the plant.
Water Thoroughly
Tomatoes need 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Water them early in the morning. This gives the plants water for the whole day. Any extra water can evaporate in the sun.
Remove Suckers
Suckers are small new branches that grow between the main stem and other branches. They compete for nutrients with the main plant.
Remove suckers to let the main plant grow tomatoes instead of more branches.
FAQs about the Best Time to Plant Tomatoes in Pennsylvania
What month should I plant tomatoes in Pennsylvania?
Plant tomatoes outside anytime from mid-May to early June. Some areas can start planting in March or April.
You can start seeds inside early. Then, transplant the seedlings outside as soon as the soil warms up. But check your area’s last frost date first. And watch the temperatures.
How long do tomatoes take to grow in Pennsylvania?
It takes 60 to 100 days for tomatoes to grow and produce tomatoes you can pick. Each type has an expected time:
- Early types, like Early Cascade and Early Girl, take less than 70 days
- Mid-season types like Floramerica and Fantastic take 70-80 days
- Late types like Amish Paste and Brandywine take over 80 days
How do I care for tomato plants in Pennsylvania?
Tomatoes are easy to care for. For a good harvest, give them:
- Fertile, well-draining soil
- Full sun
- Thorough watering (2 inches per square foot weekly)
- Support like stakes or cages
- Pest and disease control (watch for aphids, fusarium wilt, etc.)
How late can I plant tomatoes in Pennsylvania?
Tomatoes need about 100 days to harvest. When planting late, consider your first fall frost date.
In Pittsburgh, the last spring frost is April 30. The first fall frost is around October 21. This gives a growing season of 173 days.
With tomatoes taking 100 days, the latest to plant tomatoes in Pittsburgh is around July 13.
Can I plant tomatoes in the fall in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can plant late tomato types in the fall. Plant them around the third week of July. They will start producing tomatoes in mid-September before the first frost.
What are the best tomato types to grow in Pennsylvania?
The best tomatoes depend on what you like, but some good options are:
- Cherry/Grape: Sakura Honey, Red Pearl, Five-Star
- Slicer: BrandyBoy, BHN 589, Scarlet Red
- Heirloom: Pineapple, Mortgage Lifter, Arkansas Traveler
- Patio/Container: Bush Early Girl, Bush Steak, Sweet N’ Neat
Tomato plants can grow well in gardens and pots in Pennsylvania. With the proper care, these plants will reward you with juicy tomatoes. Knowing when and how to plant tomatoes is critical to getting them to thrive.
How do I protect my tomato plants from late-season frost in Pennsylvania?
Several best practices can be followed to protect tomato plants from late-season frost in Pennsylvania. These include covering the plants with row covers or plastic sheets, using mulch to insulate the soil, and providing additional heat sources such as water-filled jugs or cloches.
Can I start tomato seeds indoors and then transplant them outside in Pennsylvania?
Starting tomato seeds indoors and transplanting the seedlings outdoors in Pennsylvania is recommended. This method allows for better control of growing conditions and helps establish more potent plants before exposure to outdoor elements.
What are the common pests and diseases that affect tomato plants in Pennsylvania?
Common tomato plant pests in Pennsylvania include aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms. Common tomato plant diseases include early blight, late blight, and blossom-end rot. Proper identification and timely control methods are essential for successful tomato cultivation in the state.
How often should I water my tomato plants in Pennsylvania?
To ensure optimal growth and yield, tomato plants in Pennsylvania should be watered consistently throughout the growing season. It is recommended to water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.
Additionally, selecting the best tomato varieties for Pennsylvania and using organic fertilizers can contribute to successful cultivation.
Are there any specific tips for growing tomatoes in container gardens in Pennsylvania?
When growing tomatoes in Pennsylvania container gardens, choosing the best varieties for container gardening is essential.
Consider factors such as size, disease resistance, and growth habit. Implement proper watering, fertilization, and sun exposure practices for successful cultivation.
Conclusion: Best Time to Plant Tomatoes in PA
In conclusion, when planting tomatoes in Pennsylvania, it is crucial to understand the state’s climate and determine the average last frost date.
You can ensure successful growth by choosing suitable tomato varieties and adequately preparing the soil and garden bed.
Planting tomatoes at the ideal time and caring for them throughout the season will result in a bountiful harvest. Pennsylvania has an average annual temperature of 52°F, making it suitable for growing various tomato varieties.