Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Connecticut

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingMarch 15 – April 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 15 – June 1
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions in Connecticut

Connecticut falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 7a, featuring a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The growing season is relatively short, making proper timing crucial for tomato planting.

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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Explore Fertilizer on Amazon

Other planting guides for Connecticut:

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

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes require full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Connecticut’s summer sun is generally sufficient to meet this requirement.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Hartford (Zone 6a), start tomato seeds indoors from mid-March to mid-April. This allows seedlings to be ready for outdoor transplanting from mid-May to early June, once the threat of frost has passed.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from May 15 to June 1. Ensure soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F. Space the seedlings 24-36 inches apart in rows at least 36 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and sunlight.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist. In Connecticut’s climate, regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and again when the first fruits begin to form. Amending the soil with compost before planting can also help provide necessary nutrients.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Watch for common pests such as aphids, cutworms, and tomato hornworms.
  • Use row covers or organic pest control methods to protect your plants.
  • Practice crop rotation and proper garden hygiene to prevent diseases.

Harvesting Tomatoes:

  • Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and firm. Due to thr relatively short growing season, consider picking tomatoes just before full ripeness if frost threatens, and allow them to ripen indoors.
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