Red tomatoes

Best Planting Times for Tomatoes in Texas

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingDecember 15 – January 15
Transplant OutdoorsFebruary 15 – March 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions in Texas

Texas has a diverse climate, ranging from arid in the west to humid subtropical in the east, with USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 6a to 9b.

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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 Texas, where the climate can range from very hot summers to cooler winter temperatures, a greenhouse is invaluable. It helps protect your tomato plants from extreme heat, allowing you to extend the growing season. A greenhouse also offers a controlled environment, enabling you to manage temperature and humidity, which is crucial for healthy tomato growth in Texas.

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 Texas:

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. Texas’s long, hot summer days provide ample sunlight, but managing heat stress is crucial, particularly in the state’s hotter regions.

Starting Tomatoes Indoors

In areas like Austin (Zone 8b), start tomato seeds indoors from December 15 to January 15. This early start ensures seedlings are ready for transplanting outdoors from mid-February to mid-March, before the intense heat of summer.

Transplanting Tomato Seedlings

Transplant seedlings outdoors from February 15 to March 15, ensuring that soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F. Space the 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 maintain evenly moist soil. Texas’s hot climate can cause the soil to dry out 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. Incorporating compost into the soil before planting can improve soil fertility and help retain moisture.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Monitor for common pests like aphids, cutworms, and tomato hornworms. The state’s 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. Frequent harvesting during Texas’s hot summer months helps prevent overripening and ensures the best quality fruit.
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