Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Florida

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingDecember 15 – January 15
Transplant OutdoorsFebruary 1 – March 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

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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

In Florida’s warm climate, a greenhouse can be used to provide shade and protect your tomatoes from intense sun and heat, helping them grow consistently. It also shields your plants from heavy rains and pests, ensuring healthier growth.

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 Delaware:

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

Planting Conditions in Florida

Florida’s climate varies from subtropical in the north to tropical in the south, falling within USDA Hardiness Zones 8b to 11a. The warm climate allows for nearly year-round tomato production, especially in the southern parts of the state.

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes require full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Florida’s abundant sunshine is ideal for tomato growth, but plants may benefit from some afternoon shade in hotter regions.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Orlando (Zone 9b), start tomato seeds indoors from December 15 to January 15. This early start takes advantage of the cooler winter months and prepares plants for transplanting in late winter to early spring.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from February 1 to March 15. Ensure soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F. Space the seedlings 24-36 inches apart in rows at least 36 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and sunlight exposure.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water consistently to maintain moist, but not waterlogged, soil. In Florida’s humid climate, careful management of watering is essential to avoid fungal diseases.
  • Water at the base of the plants to keep foliage dry.

Fertilizing:

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and when the first fruits begin to form. In Florida’s often sandy soils, adding organic matter like compost can improve nutrient retention.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Monitor for common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms.
  • Use integrated pest management techniques and organic control methods where possible.

Harvesting Tomatoes:

  • Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and firm. In Florida’s climate, you may need to pick them slightly before peak ripeness to avoid splitting or sunscald, especially during the hottest months.
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