When to Plant Tomatoes
Published: April 21, 2026
The most popular home garden vegetable in the US. Timing is everything — plant too early and frost kills seedlings; plant too late and summer heat stops fruit set.
When to plant tomato
- Start seeds indoors: 6 weeks before last frost
- Transplant outdoors: 2 weeks after last frost
- Minimum soil temperature: 60°F
- Days to harvest: 60–85 days
- Sun requirement: Full sun (8+ hours)
- Spacing: 24 inches apart
- Water: 1.5 inches per week
- Fall crop: Yes — plant 12 weeks before first fall frost
⚠ Warm-climate gardeners (TX, FL, AZ) can grow TWO crops: spring (Feb–March transplant) and fall (July transplant for October harvest).
Growing Tips for Tomatoes
- •Bury the stem 2/3 deep when transplanting — roots grow from the buried stem for a stronger plant.
- •Consistent watering prevents blossom end rot and fruit cracking; uneven moisture causes both.
- •Stop heavy nitrogen once flowers appear — it causes leafy plants with few tomatoes.
- •In heat climates, plant a fall crop in July — it avoids peak heat and produces into November.
Companion Planting for Tomatoes
✅ Plant tomato with
- • Basil
- • Marigold
- • Carrot
- • Parsley
- • Borage
❌ Avoid planting near
- • Potato
- • Fennel
- • Mature Dill
- • Corn
Common Tomato Pests and Problems
Regional pest pressure varies — see your state guide below for state-specific pest calendars and treatment timing.
Tomatoes Planting Dates by State
Select your state for exact sow and transplant dates based on local frost calendars.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I start tomato seeds indoors?
Start tomato seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. This gives plants time to reach transplant size (6–8 inches) before outdoor conditions are ready. Count back from your state's average last frost date using the guide below.
When can I transplant tomatoes outside?
Transplant tomatoes outdoors 2 weeks after your last frost date, once soil temperature is above 60°F and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F. Planting into cold soil stunts root development even if frost risk is past.
Can I grow a fall tomato crop?
Yes — in most US climates you can grow a second crop. Plant transplants 12 weeks before your first fall frost date (typically July in most regions). Fall tomatoes avoid summer's peak heat and often produce cleaner, crack-free fruit.
What temperature does soil need to be for tomatoes?
Soil must be at least 60°F for tomato transplants — 65–70°F is ideal. Cold soil below 55°F causes stunted growth even without frost. Use a soil thermometer at 2-inch depth in the morning for an accurate reading.
What should I plant with tomatoes?
Classic companions: basil (repels whitefly and aphids), marigold (deters nematodes), carrot (loosens soil near roots), and borage (attracts pollinators). Avoid planting near potatoes, fennel, and mature dill which inhibit tomato growth.