Warm weather usually means it’s time to plant crops such as tomatoes. However, due to its frost-sensitive nature, you might ask, ‘can tomato seeds be planted directly in the ground?’
Is it better to plant tomato seeds outside so you won’t have to transplant later, or indoors so you can protect the seedlings from unexpected frost? Find out more below.
Can You Plant Tomato Seeds Directly in the Ground?
Tomato seeds can be planted directly to the ground (direct sowing) in both warm and cold regions. Those who live in warmer regions can benefit more from this practice compared to those who live in colder climates since the growing season is naturally longer.
They also get a head start in terms of being able to plant tomato seeds sooner.
Tomatoes are warm-season plants and like to grow in warm weather. The slightest frost or drop in temperature can be fatal for them. Tomato plants cannot tolerate frost or freezes below 32 degrees F, or 0 degrees C.
That said, tomatoes are more suited for warmer regions and should be planted outside when all risk of frost has passed. However, if you don’t want to risk your seedlings to surprise spring frosts and unusual weather changes then you can start them indoors.
Planting tomato seeds directly outside in colder areas is not recommended as they are more likely to be affected by frost. Furthermore, waiting until the ground is warm enough may mean a later harvest, and your plants might get caught trying to produce fruit in late fall or winter.
Ways to Ensure Tomato Seeds Grow and Produce Fruit
Get a Head Start by Planting Tomato Seeds Indoors
Tomatoes are relatively easy to grow as long as you give them a warm environment. The ideal temperature range for tomatoes is somewhere between 65 to 85 degrees F, or 10 to 35 degrees C.
Instead of waiting for warmer weather you can start tomato seeds indoors in trays or containers. This way, you have a degree of control over the temperature, and you’ll be able to maintain the optimal range of 65 to 85 degrees F.
In addition, you’ll have a greater chance of starting your tomato plants and completing their growing cycle so you can collect the fruits come harvest time.
Prepare the Soil for Optimal Growth
Another requirement you have to meet when it comes to planting tomatoes is making the soil rich enough to support fast growth. First, you can improve the soil structure by amending with a generous amount of compost, which adds organic material and helps the medium retain moisture without it being overly wet.
It’s a good idea to add some fertilizer to your tomato seedlings to give them the nutrients they need to grow well. Follow instructions on the label so you won’t over-fertilize. In addition, you can remove weeds and other debris such as sticks or small rocks before laying the soil out on the ground.
Follow the Right Planting Instructions
Tomato seeds should be planted at around a quarter of an inch and about 2 feet apart. If planting in a row, observe a space of 4 feet in-between so you can fertilize, water and harvest without accidentally stepping on or damaging the plants.
It’s recommended that you start putting up support so the tomatoes will have something they can climb on or cling on to. Tomato cages are normally used for determinate varieties while indeterminate varieties will need stakes and similar structures.
After planting the seeds, moisturize the medium using water from a spray bottle so they won’t wash or get blown away. You can water normally with a hose or watering can once the seedlings are established.
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