Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in North Carolina

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingFebruary 15 – March 15
Transplant OutdoorsApril 15 – May 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers with USDA Hardiness Zones 6a to 8a. This climate allows for a relatively long growing season, ideal for tomato cultivation.

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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 North Carolina, where the climate can be variable with both hot summers and cooler fall temperatures, a greenhouse is valuable for protecting your tomato plants. It allows you to control the growing environment, extending the growing season and shielding your plants from temperature extremes and pests.

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 North Carolina:

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. North Carolina’s summer climate provides ample sunlight, but managing heat and humidity is crucial for optimal growth.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Raleigh (Zone 7b), start tomato seeds indoors from February 15 to March 15. This timing ensures that seedlings are ready for transplanting outdoors from mid-April to mid-May, after the last frost.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from April 15 to May 15, ensuring that soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F. Space seedlings 24-36 inches apart in rows at least 36 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and sunlight exposure.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist. North Carolina’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 reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

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

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Monitor for common pests like aphids, cutworms, and tomato hornworms. The humid climate can also increase the risk of 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. Frequent harvesting during North Carolina’s peak summer months helps ensure the best quality fruit and prevents overripening.
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