In This Article
Key Takeaway
– 🍅 Rhode Island has a moderate growing season of around 150-180 days.
– 🌱 The last spring frost dates range from April 10 to May 5, with coastal areas thawing earlier.
– ❄️ The first fall frost dates range from September 30 to November 5, depending on the location.
– 🌿 Rhode Island is divided into planting zones 7a, 6b, and 6a, with 7a and 6b being the best for tomatoes.
– 🌡️ Tomatoes require soil temperatures of at least 60°F for proper germination and growth.
– 🍅 Recommended tomato varieties for Rhode Island include Better Boy, Early Girl, San Marzano, and more.
– 🏠 Starting tomato seeds indoors in mid to late March is common for a head start before transplanting outside.
– 🌱 Transplanting tomato seedlings should be done approximately 2-4 weeks after the last spring frost date.
– 🍅 Tips for successful tomato growing include starting seeds early, selecting disease-resistant varieties, and using supports like cages and trellises.
– 📆 A planting timeline for Rhode Island includes starting seeds indoors in mid-March, transplanting in early to mid-May, and harvesting from July to August.
– 🌞 To get the earliest tomatoes, start seeds extra early indoors, use heat mats, and prepare planting beds in advance.
– 🌱 Tomatoes can be grown successfully in containers with proper care, choosing compact varieties and providing sufficient sunlight and water.
– 🐜 Common tomato problems in Rhode Island include leggy seedlings, blossom end rot, and misshapen tomatoes, which can be addressed with proper care and prevention.
When To Plant Tomatoes In Rhode Island? (Best Time and Expert Tips)
Tomatoes are a warm-weather staple for most Rhode Island gardeners. But knowing exactly when to plant your tomatoes is key to maximizing the Ocean State’s growing season. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to grow tomatoes in Rhode Island successfully.
We’ll explore factors like first and last frost dates, ideal soil temperatures, varieties that thrive in Rhode Island, whether or not (and when) to start seeds indoors, plus step-by-step timelines. Follow these planting tips from local RI gardening experts to get your best tomato harvests!
Rhode Island’s Growing Season Length
Rhode Island falls mostly into USDA Hardiness Zones 6b and 7a. This means the state has a moderate growing season of around 150-180 days on average. The season lasts longer along the warmer coastal regions and is shorter in the cooler northwest inland areas.
Providence sees about 185 days between the last spring frost (around April 15) and the first fall frost (around October 25), while cooler inland cities like Woonsocket have a growing season from May 5 to October 1 – just 150 days.
This relatively long and moderate maritime climate gives gardeners plenty of time to grow heat-loving crops like tomatoes as long as you plan and plant at the right times!
Average Final Spring Frost Date in Rhode Island
Knowing spring’s average final frost date is crucial for timing tomato planting. This is when nighttime temperatures consistently stay above freezing, eliminating frost danger to tender vegetables and seedlings.
Here are the general time frames for the last expected spring frost in cities across Rhode Island:
- Providence – April 10 to April 20
- Newport – April 15 to April 25
- Kingston – April 15 to April 25
- Westerly – April 10 to April 20
- Woonsocket – April 25 to May 5
Coastal areas thaw out a few weeks earlier than inland parts of the state. Monitor long-range forecasts daily to be prepared for any outlier late frost events.
Expected First Fall Frost for Rhode Island
While you eagerly await spring and the end of frost season, remember the eventual return of damaging fall frost, which ends the Rhode Island growing year.
Here’s when to expect the first fall frost in cities across the state:
- Providence – October 20 to October 30
- Newport – October 20 to November 5
- Kingston – October 10 to October 20
- Westerly – October 15 to October 25
- Woonsocket – September 30 to October 10
Plan to harvest tomatoes and other tender crops before your area’s average first fall date.
Rhode Island Planting Zones for Tomatoes
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has divided Rhode Island into a few distinct planting zones based on each area’s average extreme minimum winter temperature.
Zone 7a – Average annual minimum around 0 to 5°F. Coastal sections and Block Island. Excellent for growing long-season tomatoes.
Zone 6b – Average annual minimum around -5 to 0°F. Most Rhode Island, including Providence, Newport, Kingston, and Westerly. Reliable tomato gardening zone.
Zone 6a – Average annual minimum around -10 to -5°F. A tiny northern sliver of the state near Woonsocket. Shorter tomato season with the protection needed.
So, in summary, zones 7a and 6b offer the best tomato gardening climate, while zone 6a is doable with extra care.
Ideal Soil Temperature for Planting Tomatoes in Rhode Island
While weather and frost dates provide a starting point, the soil temperature is the ultimate indicator that conditions are ripe for transplanting tomato plants outside Rhode Island.
Tomatoes require steadily warm soil of at least 60°F to properly germinate, thrive and begin setting fruit.
Some tips for gauging when the soil is ready in spring include:
- Use a thermometer probe at planting depth to get an accurate reading
- Wait until nighttime temps stay above 55°F
- Watch for lawn grasses to green up
- Observe blooming dandelions in your area
- See if you can stand barefoot on the bare ground comfortably for 1 minute
Air temperatures may rise in spring, but soil retains the cold winter chill longer. Be patient for ideal 60°F+ soil to ensure the best start for tomatoes.
Tomato Varieties That Thrive in Rhode Island
The moderate Rhode Island climate allows planting most tomato types, including heirlooms, cherry, paste, slicers, and beefsteaks.
Recommended varieties include:
- Better Boy
- Beefmaster
- Celebrity
- Champion
- Early Girl
- Fourth of July
- Juliet
- Marglobe
- Mortgage Lifter
- Park’s Whopper
- San Marzano
Try new and exotic heirlooms to take advantage of the long season. Just be sure to select disease-resistant varieties when possible.
For early harvests, choose quick-maturing determinate types. Indeterminate tomatoes will keep producing until frost with protection.
You have endless options to find your favorite tomatoes in Rhode Island!
When to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors in Rhode Island
While tomatoes can be direct sown outside once the soil thoroughly warms up, most Rhode Island gardeners get a significant head start by sowing seeds indoors weeks ahead.
Tomatoes need around 6-8 weeks of grow time as seedlings before they can be gradually hardened off and transplanted outside into the garden.
Here are the recommended seed starting times for cities across Rhode Island:
- Providence – Mid-March to early April
- Newport – Mid-March to early April
- Kingston – Mid to late March
- Westerly – Mid to late March
- Woonsocket – Early April
Monitor your seedlings closely, providing plenty of light and heat. Adjust as needed to prevent leggy, weak growth before it’s time to transplant out in late May and early June.
Transplanting Tomato Plants Outside in Rhode Island (RI)
Hardened-off tomato seedlings are typically ready for transplant outside approximately 2-4 weeks after your specific area’s average final spring frost.
Here’s an overview of when to transplant tomato plants into the garden in cities across Rhode Island:
- Providence – Late April to Mid May
- Newport – Early to Mid May
- Kingston – Early to Mid May
- Westerly – Late April to Early May
- Woonsocket – Mid to Late May
Choose a cloudy, cool day to transplant to avoid stressing plants. Harden off plants for 7-10 days beforehand. Use cloches, cold frames, or other protection if transplanting before the final frost.
Growing Tips for Rhode Island Tomato Success
Follow these tips from local gardeners for your best tomato crop ever:
- Start seeds early – don’t rush, or you’ll get leggy seedlings.
- Pick a disease-resistant variety to avoid fungal problems
- Transplant outside on a cloudy, calm evening to prevent shock
- Space plants far enough apart for ample airflow and sun exposure
- Use cages, stakes, and trellises to support vines off the damp ground
- Apply organic mulch around plants to retain moisture and discourage weeds
- If planting in containers, choose larger 7+ gallon pots for the biggest harvests
- To ripen green tomatoes before frost, pick and store them indoors in paper bags
- Build mini hoop houses over plants in the fall to extend the season 2-3 weeks longer
With proper care, Rhode Island typically provides ideal growing conditions for tomato gardening success!
Rhode Island Tomato Planting Calendar
Here is an approximate timeline for the critical steps in growing tomatoes across Rhode Island:
- Mid-March to Early April – Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date
- Late April to Early May – Begin hardening off plants and prepare garden beds
- Early May to Mid May – Transplant mature plants into garden 2-4 weeks after the last frost
- May – Install trellises and mulch. Make a frost protection plan.
- June – Prune suckers, fertilize, monitor for pests & diseases
- July & August – Harvest! Enjoy fresh tomatoes for 2-3 months
- September & October – Extend the season as long as possible until the first fall frost
- November – Clean up the garden and plan next year’s tomato crop!
With strategic timing starting indoors in March, you can maximize Rhode Island’s relatively long and warm season for growing sumptuous tomatoes.
Growing tomatoes in Rhode Island requires careful attention to the changing seasons and frost dates to maximize the harvest period.
Here’s a more detailed month-by-month calendar based on the timeline you provided:
March
- Mid to Late March:
- Start tomato seeds indoors.
- Ensure they receive ample sunlight (or use grow lights) and maintain a steady temperature.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
April
- Early April:
- Continue caring for seedlings, ensuring they receive adequate light and water.
- Late April:
- Begin the process of hardening off your tomato plants. This involves gradually exposing them to the outdoor environment for a few hours daily, increasing the duration daily.
- Prepare garden beds by amending the soil with compost or well-rotted manure.
May
- Early to Mid-May:
- Transplant mature tomato plants into the garden. Ensure they are placed at a suitable distance apart for proper growth.
- Water them deeply after transplanting to reduce transplant shock.
- Late May:
- Install trellises or stakes to support the growing tomato plants.
- Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
- Be prepared for any unexpected frosts by having coverings or protection methods in place.
June
- Throughout June:
- Monitor the development of the tomato plants.
- Prune suckers (side shoots) that grow between the main stem and the branches to promote better fruit development.
- Fertilize as needed based on soil testing or general guidelines for tomatoes.
- Regularly inspect plants for pests like aphids, hornworms and diseases like early blight.
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells.
July
- Early to Late July:
- Begin harvesting as tomatoes ripen. They should be firm and fully colored.
- Continue monitoring for pests and diseases.
- Ensure consistent watering, especially during the hotter periods.
August
- Throughout August:
- Continue the harvest.
- If you notice any signs of end rot (black spots at the bottom of the tomato), ensure more consistent watering and consider adding calcium to the soil.
September
- Early September:
- Depending on the weather, you may still be harvesting.
- As temperatures begin to drop, monitor forecasts for potential frosts.
- Late September:
- Cover plants overnight with frost cloths or old sheets to extend the season if frost is predicted.
October
- Throughout October:
- Harvest any remaining tomatoes, including green ones, which can be ripened indoors or used for recipes requiring green tomatoes.
- It’s time to wind down the season as the first fall frost approaches.
November
- Early November:
- Remove leftover plants and debris from the garden to reduce the risk of diseases and pests the following year.
- Consider planting a cover crop or adding compost to enrich the soil for next year’s crop.
- Late November:
- Reflect on the growing season, noting what worked well and what challenges you faced.
- Start planning for next year’s tomato crop, considering varieties, garden layout, and any adjustments based on this year’s experiences.
This calendar should help you achieve a successful tomato harvest in Rhode Island. Remember, gardening is as much an art as a science, so use this as a guide and adjust based on your specific conditions and experiences.
How to Get the Earliest Tomatoes in Rhode Island
What Rhode Island gardener doesn’t want to get their hands on fresh, ripe backyard tomatoes as soon as possible? Try these tips to get the earliest tomatoes:
- Start seeds extra early – shoot for late February or early March indoors.
- Use a heat mat when the seed starts to warm soil 10+ degrees above room temp.
- Upgrade to a grow light system with adjustable height instead of a windowsill.
- Transplant seedlings into larger containers as they outgrow starter trays to encourage growth before planting outside.
- Prepare south-facing planting beds in full sun 6-8 weeks before the target transplant date.
- Install plastic mulch weeks ahead to heat soil and float row covers for extra warmth.
- Transplant seedlings under cloches or tunnels a week or two before the last average frost.
- Prune lower leaves and any suckers that emerge to focus all energy on fruiting.
- Apply organic nitrogen fertilizer monthly to aid plant growth in excellent spring soil.
- Monitor soil moisture daily and irrigate when the top inch dries out to prevent water stress.
Follow these tips starting as early as February, and you can shave weeks off the wait for fresh ripe tomatoes in Rhode Island!
Rhode Island (RI) Container Tomato Gardening
Limited garden space or dealing with poor soil? No problem! Tomatoes grown in containers thrive with the proper care:
- Stick with determinate, compact varieties like Red Robin or Tiny Tim.
- Use large 5+ gallon containers for bigger plants and higher yields.
- Add extra compost to potting mix to provide nutrients that will leach out faster.
- Allow at least 8 hours of direct sunlight if possible – a sunny deck or patio is ideal.
- Monitor soil moisture meticulously in pots and water when the top inch is dry.
- Feed with a water-soluble tomato fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
- Shelter pots next to the house or group together to retain warmth.
- Move container plants based on sunlight and shelter from winds.
You can grow tomato plants in RI successfully in pots with attentive watering, sufficient sun, and protection when needed!
Common Tomato Problems and Solutions in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s warm, humid climate can lead to some typical tomato problems:
Leggy seedlings – Start seeds earlier indoors and improve light exposure. Don’t over-fertilize young plants.
Blossom end rot – Add dolomitic lime to the soil and keep the moisture level consistent to prevent this.
Cracks in tomatoes – Result from fluctuating soil moisture. Use drip irrigation for steady watering.
Misshapen tomatoes – Caused by cold nights. Choose resistant varieties and use row covers when cold.
Diseases – Plant disease-resistant varieties. Improve garden sanitation and airflow. Rotate planting sites.
You can enjoy a healthy tomato crop in Rhode Island with preventative care and prompt treatment!
Tomato Growing Tips from Rhode Island Gardeners
Here’s some advice from experienced tomato growers around Rhode Island:
“I swear by those Wall O’ Waters rings for getting my tomatoes off to the earliest start – lets me plant weeks before the last frost date safely.” – Linda R., Providence
“Don’t prune suckers until July – it slows the plants too much here when you need to grow fast before September chills hit.” – Max T., Newport
“I add dolomitic lime to my garden beds each fall to prevent blossom end rot. Haven’t had it in years since starting this.” – Megan A., Westerly
“If you’re seeing slugs, sprinkle used coffee grounds around the base of plants. Safe slug deterrent and fertilizer!” – Juan C., Kingston
With intelligent preparation starting as early as February, Rhode Island gardeners can grow robust tomato plants and enjoy months of fresh ripe tomatoes. Just stay on top of potential disease threats in this humid climate.
Now you have a complete guide to successfully growing tomatoes in Rhode Island. Follow the tips to choose varieties suited to the maritime climate, properly time starting seeds indoors, and transplant mature plants for an optimal harvest timeframe.
Pay close attention to soil moisture and nutrients. Your Rhode Island (RI) tomato garden will thrive and produce bountiful crops with the proper care!
FAQs About When Can I Plant Tomatoes In RI?
How big do tomato plants grow in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, tomato plants can grow quite large, often reaching heights 4-6 feet tall if staked or caged correctly. The indeterminate varieties tend to grow the most elevated.
Can you expect excellent yields when growing tomatoes in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island’s long growing season and fertile soil allow for excellent tomato yields. With proper care, most tomato plants will produce abundantly.
When to grow tomatoes in Rhode Island (RI)?
The best time to plant tomatoes in Rhode Island is late May after the last frost date. This allows plants to mature and produce fruit through the summer and fall.
Can you grow tomatoes in RI in winter?
No, tomatoes are a warm-season crop. They will die off with frost and freezes. You can potentially grow tomatoes indoors in winter under grow lights.
Can you grow tomatoes in Rhode Island multiple times per year?
Growing two tomato crops per year in Rhode Island is possible by planting early varieties in spring and late varieties in mid-summer.
Is it better to grow tomatoes in Rhode Island from seeds or seedlings?
Most gardeners prefer to start with seedlings or transplants. This gives plants a head start on growth. Seeds can be tricky to begin correctly indoors.
Should you start growing tomatoes in Rhode Island indoors?
Yes, planting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting allows for better growth. Use a sunny window or grow lights to get seedlings established.
How to water tomato plants in Rhode Island?
Tomatoes need consistent watering, about 1-2 inches per week. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to avoid wetting the leaves, and fertilize every 2-3 weeks.
Do you have to protect tomatoes against the sun in Rhode Island?
Not usually. The sunny climate is ideal for tomatoes. However, shade cloth can protect against sun scald on sweltering and sunny days.
Will wild animals feed on tomatoes in Rhode Island?
Yes, deer, groundhogs, rabbits, and squirrels may feed on tomatoes. Fencing and netting can help protect plants from wildlife.
Tomato Pests & Plant Diseases in Rhode Island
Common tomato pests are hornworms, aphids, stink bugs, and cutworms. Diseases to watch for are blights, wilts, mould, blossom end rot, and viruses. Rotate planting sites to reduce disease.
When to harvest tomatoes in Rhode Island?
Tomatoes can be harvested when fully coloured but still firm. Pick every few days once ripening starts, usually mid-summer. Protect plants from frost to maximize harvest time.