Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Minnesota

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

Planting Conditions in Minnesota

Minnesota has a cold climate with long winters and relatively short summers. The state is primarily within USDA Hardiness Zones 3a to 5a, which means the growing season for tomatoes is brief, requiring careful timing.

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes require full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Minnesota’s summer days are generally long enough to provide the necessary sunlight for tomato plants.

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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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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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Greenhouse Growing

In Minnesota, where the growing season is often limited by cold weather, a greenhouse is essential for extending your tomato-growing season. It allows you to start plants earlier in the spring and continue growing later into the fall. With adequate heating, you can protect your plants from frost and possibly 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 Minnesota:

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

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Minneapolis (Zone 4b), start tomato seeds indoors from April 1 to April 30. This timing ensures that seedlings are strong enough to be transplanted outdoors in mid-May to early June, after the danger of frost has passed.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

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

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently to maintain moist soil. Minnesota’s cooler climate means that the soil may take longer to warm up and dry out, so adjust watering as temperatures increase in the summer.
  • Water at the base of the plants to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

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

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Monitor for common pests like aphids, cutworms, and tomato hornworms. The cool, humid climate can also promote fungal diseases, so vigilance is key.
  • Use organic or integrated pest management strategies to protect your plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting Tomatoes:

  • Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and firm. Due to Minnesota’s short growing season, it’s important to monitor the weather and harvest fruit before the first fall frost.
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