Tomato Plant Growing Temperature

Plant tomato seedlings once the soil warms above 60 degrees F.

The tomato is the most popular vegetable plant grown in home gardens according to the University of Illinois Extension. Tomato seeds and plants grown at the correct temperatures produce quality mature plants with a large fruit harvest.

Starting Seeds

Start tomato seeds indoors by planting them 1/4-inch below the soil surface and covering the container to with clear plastic. Place the planting containers in an area that receives indirect sunlight and has a temperature of approximately 80 degrees F.

Transplant Outdoors

Transplant tomato seedlings outdoors once the seedlings grow their first set of true leaves and the soil warms to a minimum temperature of 60 degrees F. Set the plants deep into the soil to stimulate strong root production.

Growing Season

According to the University of Illinois Extension, tomato plants grow best in temperatures above 55 degrees F and below 95 degrees F. The plants will not tolerate hot temperatures with drying winds.

End of Season

Harvest tomato fruit before the first frost in the fall season. Freezing temperatures below 45 degrees F cause the plant growth to decrease and limits further production.

References

• North Carolina State University Extension: Starting Plants from Seeds
• University of Illinois Extension: Tomato
• North Carolina State University Extension: Growing Tomatoes in the Home Garden