Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Tennessee

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 in Tennessee

Tennessee has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, placing it within USDA Hardiness Zones 6a to 8a.

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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 Tennessee, where the climate can vary significantly throughout the year, a greenhouse is a valuable tool for protecting your tomato plants. It helps extend the growing season, allowing you to start your plants earlier in the spring and keep them growing later into the fall. With a greenhouse, you can ensure a more stable and productive environment for your tomatoes.

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 Tennessee:

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

Sun Requirements

Tomatoes need full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Tennessee’s warm climate typically offers ample sunlight, which is crucial for healthy tomato growth.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Nashville (Zone 7a), start tomato seeds indoors from February 15 to March 15. This early start prepares seedlings for outdoor transplanting 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 ensure good air circulation and adequate sunlight.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently to maintain evenly moist soil. Tennessee’s hot summers can cause soil to dry out quickly, so regular watering is important.
  • Water at the base of the plants to prevent wetting the foliage, reducing 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 soil structure and fertility.

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 necessary.
  • 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. Regular harvesting during Tennessee’s peak summer months helps maintain fruit quality and prevents overripening.
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