When to Plant Tomatoes In Pennsylvania?
Tomato plants require much attention and optimum conditions like temperature, pH, humidity, etc. Depending on where you live, you might have to plant tomatoes at different times for optimal results.
When to Plant Tomatoes In Pennsylvania (PA)?
The perfect time to plant tomatoes in Pennsylvania is the end of April to May. The average temperature at the end of April is between 50-69°F (10-20.5°C).
Table of Contents
Factors Affecting the Yield of Tomatoes
Climate
Tomatoes require a warm climate to grow well. They are sensitive to frost.
The optimum temperature range for their growth is 69–75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius).
Temperature plays an essential role in yield quality and productivity.
Fertilizers
Fertilizers with an adequate quantity of nitrogen should be used. They will help enhance the tomatoes’ growth, size, productivity, and color.
During the seeding and germination stage, provide the plant with Mono Ammonium Phosphate (MAP), a phosphorous source.
Soil
Tomato plants require well-drained soil that is organically rich in minerals.
Provide them with deep, loamy, and sandy soil. Tomatoes are resistant to a wide range of pH; however, the preferred pH range for their growth is 5.5-6.8.
Proper Irrigation
During their growth period, tomato plants require adequate moisture to grow well.
In summer, you need to water them after every 3-4 days. However, you can water them in winter after 10-15 days to keep the soil moist.
How to Make The Tomato Plants Grow Well
It is essential to follow these tips to make tomato plants grow well.
- When planting tomatoes, you need to provide enough space underground so the roots can grow and spread easily.
- Put the seeds in the soil, spread them evenly, and then cover them with soil.
- Place the plant in full or partial sunlight to get an adequate yield. The plant requires 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
- Water the plants regularly and ensure the soil does not dry out.
Common Problems with Tomato Plants
Phytophthora Root Rot
It is a fungal disease in which the plant turns brown and eventually dies.
Verticillium Wilt
It is also a fungal disease. The leaves of infected tomato plants turn yellow. They turn from yellow to brown and eventually die.
Blight
A typical fungal disease called tomato blight causes the plant to become yellow and die. A fungicide can be used to restrict this problem.
Which Type of Tomatoes Are Best to Grow In Pennsylvania?
Apart from knowing when to plant tomatoes in Pennsylvania, another essential thing is which variety of tomatoes will grow well in this region.
The best variety of tomatoes for this region is Heirloom, Red Slicers, and Saladette tomatoes.
Heirloom tomatoes are the traditional tomatoes of Pennsylvania. In the 19th century, the Amish introduced tomatoes in Pennsylvania.
Red slicers and Saladette tomatoes are majorly used for making sauces, salads, and sandwiches.
Growing Zones of Pennsylvania
The areas identified by USDA for having similar hardiness levels are called growing zones. The weather and temperature of each zone are different, which is suitable for the growth of different plants.
The growing zones of Pennsylvania are 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, and a little bit of 7b.
Tomato plants prefer to grow in USDA hardiness zones 5, 6, 7, and 8.
How Long Does A Tomato Plant Need to Grow?
Tomatoes take about 60-100 days to grow from seeds to mature plants. They are ready to harvest once they turn red. They are the most flavorful when they have completely ripened.
Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes consist of 95% of water. Tomatoes are a rich source of dietary fiber. There are 1.5 grams of fiber in an average-sized tomato. Moreover, tomatoes are an abundant source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
Tomatoes are proven to improve and promote skin health. Foods made from tomatoes are rich in lycopene, protecting the skin from sunburn.
Tomatoes fight oxidative stress and inflammation; hence, they enhance heart health.
How To Keep Tomatoes Fresh?
One of the ways to keep ripe tomatoes fresh is to keep them at room temperature in your kitchen. Make sure that they are not exposed to direct sunlight.
You can keep your ripe tomatoes in the fridge to increase their shelf life.
If the tomatoes are still ripening, do not place them in the refrigerator as their ripening process will stop, and the tomatoes will be spoiled.
Frequently Asked Questions About When to Plant Tomatoes In Pennsylvania
Which type of tomatoes is the easiest to grow?
The simplest variety of tomatoes to raise is cherry tomatoes. Beginners are supposed to start with this type of tomato.
Does frost damage tomatoes?
Tomatoes prefer to grow in a warm environment. Therefore, frost will cause damage to the tomato plant.
What am I supposed to do to keep the tomatoes warm at night?
A cardboard box can help you protect the tomatoes from the cold at night.
Which type of tomatoes is the sweetest?
Cherry tomatoes are found to be the sweetest of all tomatoes. However, the sugar content of all tomato types differs depending on individualistic preference.
Conclusion To When to plant tomatoes in PA
Tomatoes should be planted between April – May in PA when the temperatures allow it.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.