When to Plant Tomatoes in Utah
America's favorite garden vegetable (technically a fruit). Nothing beats a sun-warmed tomato straight off the vine.
The Short Answer
Utah Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Utah you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wasatch Front (SLC) | 6a, 6b, 7a | Apr 20 - May 10 | Oct 1 - Oct 20 |
| Mountain Regions | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 25 - Jun 15 | Aug 25 - Sep 15 |
| Southern Utah | 6b, 7a, 7b | Apr 10 - May 1 | Oct 10 - Nov 1 |
Tomatoes Planting Schedule for Utah
Wasatch Front (SLC) (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20
Mountain Regions (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15
Southern Utah (Zones 6b, 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 10 - May 1 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Nov 1
Growing Tomatoes in Utah
Tomatoes in Utah's Climate
Your long growing season gives tomatoes plenty of time, but extreme summer heat above 95°F can cause blossom drop and pause fruit set during the hottest weeks. In the Deep South and Texas, many growers aim for two tomato seasons — spring (transplant early) and fall (start new plants in July). Choose heat-tolerant varieties like Heat Wave, Solar Fire, and Phoenix. Afternoon shade from taller plants can help during the most brutal July-August heat.
Soil Considerations for Utah
Alkaline desert soils. Low organic matter. Saline soils in some areas. Heavy amendment with compost and sulfur needed. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting tomatoes outside.
Utah Climate & Growing Season
Arid climate. Intense sun. Low humidity. Wide temperature swings. Irrigation essential everywhere. Tomatoes cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across Utah: Wasatch Front (SLC) (6a, 6b, 7a) has a last frost around Apr 20 - May 10, while Southern Utah (6b, 7a, 7b) sees frost end around Apr 10 - May 1. This difference matters for tomatoes — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
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
Plant tomatoes alongside these companions for better growth:
Keep tomatoes away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026