Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Maine

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 1 – May 1
Transplant OutdoorsJune 1 – June 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions in Maine

Maine has a cool, continental climate with short summers and long, cold winters. The state falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 3b to 5b, meaning the growing season for tomatoes is relatively short and requires careful planning.

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes in Maine need full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The short summer days necessitate ensuring that plants receive as much sunlight as possible.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Portland (Zone 5b), start tomato seeds indoors from April 1 to May 1. This timing allows seedlings to be ready for outdoor transplanting in early June, after the last frost has passed.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from June 1 to June 15, once soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F. Space the seedlings 24-36 inches apart in rows at least 36 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation and sunlight exposure.

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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 Maine, where the growing season is shorter due to cold temperatures, a greenhouse is crucial for extending the season. It allows you to start your tomato plants early in the spring and keep them growing well into the fall. With proper heating, you can even protect your plants from frost and potentially grow tomatoes year-round.

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 Maine:

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

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently to maintain evenly moist soil. Maine’s cooler climate means less frequent watering may be required, but it’s still important to ensure the soil doesn’t dry out.
  • Water at the base of the plants to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again when the first fruits begin to form. Enriching the soil with compost before planting helps improve fertility, particularly in Maine’s often rocky or sandy soils.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Monitor for common pests such as aphids and cutworms. The cooler climate can reduce pest pressure, but vigilance is still necessary.
  • Use organic or integrated pest management strategies to keep pest populations under control and prevent disease.

Harvesting Tomatoes:

  • Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and firm. Given Maine’s short growing season, consider picking tomatoes just before full ripeness if an early frost is expected, allowing them to ripen indoors.
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