Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Arkansas

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingFebruary 15 – March 15
Transplant OutdoorsApril 1 – April 30
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions in Arkansas

Arkansas experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, which can extend the tomato growing season if managed correctly.

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes need full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. In Arkansas, this requirement is typically easy to meet due to the state’s generally clear weather patterns.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Little Rock, AR (Zone 7b), start tomato seeds indoors from February 15 to March 15. This prepares the plants to be strong enough to handle outdoor conditions by early April.

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Useful Tools for Starting Tomatoes Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your tomatoes the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.
Seeds Image
Browse Tomato Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This makes the process more efficient and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
Planting Trays Image
Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to grow strong and healthy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Grow Lights Image
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your seedlings the best start possible.
Seed Starting Soil Image
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Greenhouse Growing

Greenhouses provide an optimal environment for growing tomatoes by maintaining consistent temperatures, protecting from harsh weather, and extending the growing season. They allow you to control the growing conditions, resulting in healthier plants and higher yields.

Currently, the 8x10x7.5 FT Greenhouse is priced at $999. It’s a great investment for ensuring your tomatoes thrive all year round.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer plays an essential role in providing tomato plants with the nutrients they need for robust growth and a plentiful harvest.
Fertilizer Image
Explore Fertilizer on Amazon

Other planting guides for Arkansas:

Any questions on growing tomatoes? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Tomatoes

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from April 1 to April 30, after the last frost has passed and when soil temperatures consistently stay above 50°F. Space the seedlings about 24-36 inches apart in rows spaced at least 36 inches apart. This spacing helps to ensure adequate airflow and sunlight penetration, which are crucial for healthy growth and fruit production.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Provide regular watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Tomatoes thrive with deep, infrequent waterings that help to establish a strong root system.
  • Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases.

Fertilizing:

  • Fertilize tomatoes at planting and again when fruits begin to set. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that can provide nutrients steadily throughout the growing season.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and tomato hornworms.
  • Use cultural, mechanical, or biological control methods to manage pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Harvesting Tomatoes:

  • Harvest tomatoes when they are firm and fully colored. Arkansas’s warm climate may allow tomatoes to ripen on the vine, but if extreme heat is expected, harvesting them slightly early can prevent damage.

BeeJay
Latest posts by BeeJay (see all)