Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Missouri

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingMarch 1 – April 1
Transplant OutdoorsMay 1 – May 31
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Missouri has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and hot, humid summers, placing the state within USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 7a. The varied climate requires careful timing to ensure a productive tomato crop.

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes need full sun, with a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Missouri’s summer climate generally provides ample sunlight, making it ideal for growing tomatoes.

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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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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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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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Greenhouse Growing

In Missouri, where the climate can be unpredictable with cold snaps and hot spells, a greenhouse offers a controlled environment to protect your tomato plants. It allows you to extend the growing season by starting earlier in the spring and continuing later into the fall, ensuring a consistent and productive harvest.

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 is essential to provide your tomato plants with the nutrients they need for strong growth and a successful harvest.
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Other planting guides for Missouri:

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

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like St. Louis (Zone 6b), start tomato seeds indoors from March 1 to April 1. This timing allows seedlings to be ready for outdoor transplanting from May 1 to May 31, after the last frost has passed.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 31, ensuring soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F. Space the seedlings 24-36 inches apart in rows at least 36 inches apart to ensure good air circulation and adequate sunlight.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist. Missouri’s hot summers can dry out the soil quickly, so regular watering is essential.
  • Water at the base of the plants to prevent wetting the foliage, which helps to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again when the first fruits begin to form. Incorporating compost into the soil before planting can improve soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Monitor for common pests like aphids, cutworms, and tomato hornworms. Missouri’s humid climate can also increase the risk of fungal diseases, so it’s important to keep an eye on your plants.
  • Use organic or integrated pest management strategies to keep your plants healthy and free of pests.

Harvesting Tomatoes:

  • Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and firm. Frequent harvesting during Missouri’s hot summer months helps prevent overripening and ensures the best quality fruit.
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