As a gardening and landscaping expert, I’ve often been asked whether June is too late to plant tomatoes. In most temperate gardening climates, it is generally recommended to plant big heirloom tomatoes in May or early June at the latest. This timing allows for the longest growing season and gives the tomatoes enough time to ripen before the end of the growing season.
The reason for planting big heirloom tomatoes earlier in the season is because they tend to take longer to mature and produce fruit. These larger varieties typically have a longer growing period, with some taking up to 80-90 days from planting to harvest. By planting them in May or early June, you are giving them the best chance to reach their full potential and produce a bountiful harvest.
However, if you missed the window for planting big heirloom tomatoes, don’t worry! There are still options available. Smaller tomato varieties, such as cherry or grape tomatoes, can be planted a little later in the season. These smaller varieties have shorter growing periods and their fruits don’t take as long to ripen. This means that even if you plant them in late June, you can still expect to have a decent harvest before the end of the growing season.
In my own experience, I have successfully planted tomatoes in June and still enjoyed a good harvest. Last year, I planted cherry tomatoes in mid-June, and they started producing ripe fruits by late July. While the harvest wasn’t as abundant as if I had planted them earlier, I still had enough tomatoes to enjoy fresh off the vine and to share with friends and family.
When planting tomatoes in June, it’s important to choose varieties that have shorter growing periods. Look for determinate or early-maturing varieties that are specifically bred to produce fruit in a shorter amount of time. These varieties are more suitable for late planting and will have a better chance of reaching maturity before the end of the season.
To give your tomatoes the best chance of success when planting them in June, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, make sure to provide them with a sunny location in your garden. Tomatoes thrive in full sun, so choose a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Secondly, prepare the soil well before planting. Tomatoes prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Incorporate compost or aged manure into the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. This will help provide the necessary nutrients for the plants to grow and produce fruit.
Lastly, provide regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Tomatoes need consistent moisture to thrive, so make sure to water them deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulching around the plants can also help conserve moisture and reduce weed competition.
While May or early June is the ideal time to plant big heirloom tomatoes in most temperate gardening climates, it is still possible to have success with planting smaller tomato varieties in June. By choosing early-maturing varieties, providing them with a sunny location, preparing the soil well, and ensuring regular watering, you can still enjoy a harvest of delicious tomatoes even if you missed the earlier planting window.
