The best time to plant tomatoes in North Carolina is in the spring, after the last frost (April – July). Tomatoes are a warm-season crop, so they won’t do well if planted too early. Wait until the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed before planting your tomatoes. If you plant them too early, they may not produce fruit or they may produce small, misshapen fruit.
Determinate or Indeterminate
It’s also important to choose a tomato variety that is suited for your growing region. There are two main types of tomatoes: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate varieties grow to a certain size and then stop growing, while indeterminate varieties keep growing and producing fruit all season long. In general, determinate varieties are better suited for cooler climates, while indeterminate varieties do better in warm climates.
Tomatoes are not the sort of plant that can tolerate cold temperatures. In order to keep them safe, you need an area with no frost date before they’re ready for outdoors planting – which means starting indoors at least 6 weeks prior! If your tomato seeds have finished growing but there’s still some distance left until acceptable weather conditions arise (and if this isn’t too much trouble), then it might be worth taking one last look over these roots now so as best ensure success later on down south in their new home soil.
Ideal Temperatures for Tomatoes to Thrive
Tomatoes are a warm-season crop, which means they need warm temperatures to thrive. They won’t do well if the temperature is too cold. The ideal temperature range for tomatoes is 70°F to 85°F during the day and 60°F to 70°F at night. If the daytime temperature gets too hot (above 95°F), the tomato plants will stop setting fruit.
It’s important to choose a location for your tomato plants that will provide them with enough warmth. There are two main types of tomatoes: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate varieties grow to a certain size and then stop growing, while indeterminate varieties keep growing and producing fruit all season long. In general, determinate varieties are better suited for cooler climates, while indeterminate varieties do better in warm climates.
When choosing a tomato variety, make sure to choose one that is well-suited for your climate. You’ll need to pick tomato varieties that will flourish in the hot North Carolina summer. Try planting these tomatoes: ‘Better Boy’ ‘Big Beef’ (similar to one in Texas) or ‘Grape Tomatoes’ in NC.
Tomato ‘Better Boy’ (Lycopersicon Hybrid)
| Category: | Vegetable |
| Available Colors: | Red |
| Bloom Time: | Summer |
| Height Range: | 2-3′ (0.6-0.9m) |
| Space Range: | 2-3′ (0.6-0.9m) |
| Lowest Temperature: | 40° to 50°F (4° to 10°C) |
| Plant Light: | Full Sun |
| Companion Plants: | Beans, Lettuce, Peppers,Oregano, Onion |
| USDA Zone: | 11-12 |
| Days To Maturity: | 70-75 |
| Fruit Size: | 8-17oz (227-482g) |
| Vine Type: | Indeterminate |
| Disease Resistance: | VFN |
Tomato ‘Big Beef’
| Category: | Vegetable |
| Available Colors: | Red |
| Bloom Time: | Summer |
| Height Range: | 2-3′ (0.6-0.9m) |
| Space Range: | 2-3′ (0.6-0.9m) |
| Lowest Temperature: | 40° to 50°F (4° to 10°C) |
| Plant Light: | Full Sun |
| Companion Plants: | Beans, Lettuce, Peppers, Basil, Onion |
| USDA Zone: | 11-12 |
| Days To Maturity: | 73 |
| Fruit Size: | 10-12oz (284-340g) |
| Vine Type: | Indeterminate |
| Disease Resistance: | TVFFNASt |
Last Frost Dates in North Carolina
The USDA Hardiness Zone North Carolina belongs in the middling range, between 5 and 9 on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being most difficult. The last frost date is the date when there is no longer any danger of frost. This date can vary from year to year, but in general, the last frost date in North Carolina falls between April 15 and May 15.
The first frost date is an important consideration for growing and harvesting tomatoes. The average first freeze typically occurs on October 30th, but this can vary depending upon where you live in the Northern Hemisphere – so keep your eyes peeled.
If you plant your tomatoes too early and there is a risk of frost, you can protect them by covering them with a cloth or plastic sheet. Make sure to remove the cover during the day so that the plants can get enough sunlight.
- Charlotte Last Frost Date – April 11th / First Frost Date – October 28th
- Raleigh Last Frost Date – April 8th / First Frost Date – October 29th
- Greensboro Last Frost Date – April 10th / First Frost Date – October 31st
- Durham Last Frost Date – April 10th / First Frost Date – October 29th
- Winston-Salem Last Frost Date – April 7th / First Frost Date – November 3rd
When to Start Tomato Seeds in North Carolina
The varieties of tomatoes you choose to grow will determine when your seeds should be sown. If planted after the last frost date, they’ll need at least 60 days until germination; however, this may vary depending on location and type/color desired for harvest (greenhouse professionals recommend 50-90 day waits).
Planting Tomatoes Outdoors
It is not safe to plant tomatoes plants outdoors after the last frost date. The risk of freezing temperatures and harsh weather can damage them, so wait until they are fully emerged before planting in order give themselves time to grow strong protections against these conditions.
If you have to transplant your tomatoes, make sure to do it carefully. The roots are delicate and can be easily damaged. Gently loosen the soil around the plant and lift it out of the pot. Be careful not to damage the stem or leaves. Place the plant in the hole and fill in the hole with soil, tamping it down gently. Water the plant well.
The final step before you can plant your tomatoes is waiting for two weeks after the last frost date. Make sure to check with a weather forecast and other indicators so that everything goes smoothly!
What if I Transplant Tomatoes Too Early?
If you transplant your tomatoes too early and there is a risk of frost, you can protect them by covering them with a cloth or plastic sheet. Make sure to remove the cover during the day so that the plants can get enough sunlight.
You can also try using a tomato cage to support the plant and keep it from toppling over in strong winds. Stake the cage into the ground so that it is secure and put it around the plant. The cage will give the plant some support and protection against bad weather.
Tomatoes need full sun to grow well, so make sure to choose a location that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day. They also need well-drained soil, so if your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may need to amend it with some compost or sand.
When You Are Ready to Plant
Once you have chosen a location and prepared the soil, you are ready to plant your tomatoes! Dig a hole that is big enough to fit the root ball of the plant. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole. Backfill with soil and water well.
Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, and they can be grown in many different climates. With a little care and attention, you can grow healthy plants that will produce an abundance of fruit for years to come! Growing your own tomatoes is a fun and rewarding experience that everyone should try at least once. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and plant some tomatoes!
FAQ
What month do you plant tomatoes in NC?
The best time to plant tomatoes in NC is after the last frost date, which is typically in April.
What is the best tomato to grow in North Carolina?
There are many different types of tomatoes that can be grown in North Carolina. Some of the most popular varieties include: Early Girl, Big Boy, Beefsteak, and Cherry tomatoes.
Can you grow tomatoes indoors in North Carolina?
Yes, you can grow tomatoes indoors in North Carolina. However, they will need to be transplanted outdoors after the last frost date.
What are the best months to plant tomatoes?
The best months to plant tomatoes are typically April-May. However, this may vary depending on your location and climate.
What is the best fertilizer for tomatoes?
Tomatoes need a high-quality fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A good option for tomato plants is a 16-16-16 fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions.
When can I plant tomatoes in Raleigh?
The best time to plant tomatoes in Raleigh is after the last frost date, which is typically in April.
Can I plant tomatoes now in NC?
The best time to plant tomatoes in NC is after the last frost date, which is typically in April. However, you can check with a local garden center or cooperative extension office for more specific information.
What can I plant in February in NC?
In February, you can plant cool-season vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. You can also plant herbs such as parsley and thyme.
What can I plant in March in NC?
In March, you can plant cool-season vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. You can also plant herbs such as parsley and thyme. Tomatoes can be planted after the last frost date.
When should I start my garden in NC?
The best time to start a garden in NC is after the last frost date, which is typically in April. However, you can check with a local garden center or cooperative extension office for more specific information.
What zone is North Carolina?
North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone eight. This means that the average minimum temperature is between 15 and 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
I’m Michael Barnes and I love what I do. Every day, I get to work with the land and help create something that is essential for life. But it’s not always easy. Every day brings new challenges or unexpected natural disasters in order to produce what we need every day: meat; fruit, juice, and healthy dairy products!
