When to Plant Tomatoes
America's favorite garden vegetable (technically a fruit). Nothing beats a sun-warmed tomato straight off the vine.
The Short Answer
How to Grow Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the backbone of the American vegetable garden — more home gardeners grow them than any other crop. The key distinction is determinate vs indeterminate: determinates grow to a fixed height and produce all at once (good for canning), while indeterminates keep growing and producing until frost kills them (good for fresh eating). Start with disease-resistant varieties labeled VFN on the tag — this means resistance to Verticillium, Fusarium, and Nematodes. Bury transplants deep, up to the first set of leaves, because tomatoes root along their buried stems. Consistent watering prevents blossom end rot, the #1 complaint of new tomato growers.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Begin tomatoes seeds indoors 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Seeds need soil temperatures of at least 60°F to germinate, which typically takes 5-10 days. Provide 14 hours of light per day using a south-facing window or grow lights.
Transplanting
Move seedlings outside 2 weeks after your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 60°F. Harden off seedlings for 7 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Direct Sowing
Tomatoes can be direct sown 2 weeks after your last frost date. Plant seeds 0.25" deep, spaced 24" apart.
Growing Tips
Pinch off suckers for indeterminate varieties. Stake or cage for best results. Water at the base, not overhead, to prevent blight.
Companion Planting
Good companions:
Keep away from:
Tomatoes Planting Dates by State
Click your state for tomatoes planting dates specific to your location:
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026