When to Plant Fall Tomatoes in Texas for a Great Harvest

When to Plant Fall Tomatoes in Texas

Tomatoes are a delicious and versatile summer crop that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what if you want to extend your tomato season into the fall? With a little planning, it’s possible to grow tomatoes in Texas from late summer through early winter.

In this article, we’ll discuss the best time to plant fall tomatoes in Texas, as well as the steps involved in growing them successfully. We’ll also provide tips on how to protect your tomatoes from pests and diseases. So if you’re ready to extend your tomato season, read on!

Month	Days	Notes
September	10-15	Tomatoes can be planted in September in Texas, but they will need to be protected from frost.
October	15-20	Tomatoes can be planted in October in Texas, but they will need to be protected from frost.
November	20-25	Tomatoes can be planted in November in Texas, but they will need to be protected from frost.

Factors to Consider When Planting Fall Tomatoes in Texas

When planting fall tomatoes in Texas, there are a few factors to consider in order to ensure success. These factors include climate, soil type, varieties of tomatoes to grow, planting time, spacing between plants, irrigation, and pests and diseases.

Climate

The climate in Texas can vary greatly from one region to another. The state has a humid subtropical climate in the eastern and southern regions, a semi-arid climate in the western regions, and a desert climate in the far west. The average annual temperature in Texas ranges from 55 degrees Fahrenheit in the north to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the south. The average annual precipitation ranges from 20 inches in the west to 50 inches in the east.

When choosing a variety of tomatoes to grow in Texas, it is important to consider the climate in your area. Tomatoes that are bred for warm climates, such as ‘Early Girl’ and ‘Big Boy,’ will do well in the southern and eastern regions of the state. Tomatoes that are bred for cooler climates, such as ‘Plum’ and ‘Roma,’ will do better in the western and northern regions of the state.

Soil Type

The soil in Texas can also vary greatly from one region to another. The state has a wide range of soil types, including sandy, clay, loamy, and rocky soils. The best soil for growing tomatoes is a well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Tomatoes do not tolerate wet feet, so it is important to make sure that the soil drains well. If you have heavy clay soil, you can improve drainage by adding organic matter, such as compost or manure.

Varieties of Tomatoes to Grow

There are many different varieties of tomatoes to choose from, each with its own unique flavor, size, and shape. When choosing a variety of tomatoes to grow in Texas, it is important to consider the climate in your area, the soil type, and your personal preferences. Some of the most popular varieties of tomatoes for fall planting in Texas include:

• ‘Early Girl’: This variety is a good choice for early fall planting. It is a determinate tomato that produces small, round fruits that are sweet and flavorful.
• ‘Big Boy’: This variety is a good choice for late fall planting. It is an indeterminate tomato that produces large, beefsteak-type fruits that are juicy and flavorful.
• ‘Plum’: This variety is a good choice for both early and late fall planting. It is a determinate tomato that produces small, plum-shaped fruits that are sweet and flavorful.
• ‘Roma’: This variety is a good choice for late fall planting. It is an indeterminate tomato that produces small, round fruits that are meaty and flavorful.

Planting Time

The best time to plant fall tomatoes in Texas is in late summer or early fall. The ideal planting time will vary depending on the climate in your area. In general, you should plant tomatoes about six weeks before the first frost date.

When planting tomatoes, it is important to make sure that the soil is warm and well-drained. The seedlings should be planted about 18 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. The seedlings should be planted deep enough so that the stem is buried up to the first set of leaves.

Spacing Between Plants

When planting tomatoes, it is important to space the plants properly in order to allow for good air circulation and to prevent diseases from spreading. The recommended spacing between plants is 18 inches in rows that are 3 feet apart.

Irrigation

Tomatoes need regular watering in order to produce a good crop. The plants should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. It is important to water the plants at the base of the stem and to avoid getting the leaves wet.

Pests and Diseases

Tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, tomato hornworms, nematodes, and blight. It is important to take steps to protect your plants from these pests and diseases. Some of the most effective ways to protect tomatoes from pests and diseases include:

• Sowing resistant varieties. There are many varieties of tomatoes that are resistant to specific pests and diseases. By choosing resistant varieties, you can reduce the risk of your plants being affected by these problems.
• Practicing good sanitation. This includes removing all diseased plants from the garden, cleaning up fallen leaves and debris, and rotating crops.
• Using insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests. These natural products are effective at killing aphids, tomato hornworms, and other pests.
• Applying a fungicide to control diseases. There are a variety of fungicides

3. Caring for Fall Tomatoes in Texas

Fall tomatoes are a delicious and rewarding crop to grow in Texas. However, in order to get a good harvest, it is important to provide your plants with the proper care.

Watering

Fall tomatoes need regular watering, especially during dry spells. The best time to water your tomatoes is in the morning, before the sun has had a chance to heat up the soil. Water deeply, so that the water reaches the roots of the plants.

Fertilizing

Fall tomatoes benefit from regular fertilization. A good fertilizer for fall tomatoes will contain a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). You can apply fertilizer to your tomatoes every two weeks, or according to the directions on the fertilizer label.

Pruning

Pruning your fall tomatoes will help to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. Remove any suckers (small shoots that grow from the axils of the leaves) and dead or diseased leaves. You can also prune the tops of your tomatoes to encourage the growth of side branches.

Protecting from pests and diseases

Fall tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, tomato hornworms, and powdery mildew. To protect your tomatoes from pests, you can use a variety of methods, including:

• Spraying your plants with a water and insecticidal soap solution
• Hand-picking pests off of your plants
• Using row covers to protect your plants from pests

To protect your tomatoes from diseases, you can:

• Sow resistant varieties of tomatoes
• Rotate your crops
• Prune your plants to improve air circulation
• Water your plants at the base, not overhead

4. Harvesting Fall Tomatoes in Texas

Fall tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are ripe and red. The best time to harvest your tomatoes is in the morning, before the sun has had a chance to warm them up. To harvest your tomatoes, gently twist them off of the vine. Be careful not to damage the tomatoes or the vine.

Once you have harvested your tomatoes, you can store them in a cool, dry place. They will keep for several weeks if stored properly.

Fall tomatoes are a delicious and rewarding crop to grow in Texas. By following these tips, you can grow healthy and productive fall tomatoes.

When is the best time to plant fall tomatoes in Texas?

The best time to plant fall tomatoes in Texas is from mid-August to mid-September. This will give the plants enough time to mature before the first frost, which typically occurs in late October or early November.

What varieties of tomatoes are best for fall planting in Texas?

There are many varieties of tomatoes that are well-suited for fall planting in Texas. Some good options include:

• ‘Early Girl’: This variety is a determinate tomato, which means it will produce all of its fruit at once. It is a good choice for gardeners who want to harvest a large crop of tomatoes all at once.
• ‘Big Boy’: This variety is an indeterminate tomato, which means it will continue to produce fruit throughout the season. It is a good choice for gardeners who want to enjoy fresh tomatoes throughout the fall months.
• ‘Roma’: This variety is a paste tomato, which means it is best used for making sauces or drying. It is a good choice for gardeners who want to preserve their tomatoes for winter use.

How much sun do fall tomatoes need?

Fall tomatoes need full sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

How much water do fall tomatoes need?

Fall tomatoes need regular watering, about 1-2 inches of water per week. It is important to water the plants deeply, so that the water reaches the roots.

What type of soil do fall tomatoes need?

Fall tomatoes grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.8.

How do I fertilize fall tomatoes?

Fall tomatoes should be fertilized regularly with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. Fertilize the plants every 2-4 weeks, starting about 6 weeks after planting.

How do I prevent pests and diseases in fall tomatoes?

There are a number of pests and diseases that can affect fall tomatoes. Some common problems include:

• Tomato hornworms
• Aphids
• Whiteflies
• Leaf spot
• Septoria leaf spot
• Fusarium wilt

To prevent these problems, it is important to:

• Plant resistant varieties
• Practice good garden sanitation
• Inspect the plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases
• Treat problems as soon as they are detected

How do I harvest fall tomatoes?

Fall tomatoes are ripe when they are red, firm, and have a slight give when squeezed. To harvest the tomatoes, cut them from the vine with a sharp knife.

How do I store fall tomatoes?

Fall tomatoes can be stored for several weeks at room temperature or for up to 6 months in the refrigerator. To store the tomatoes, place them in a single layer in a paper bag or cardboard box.

How can I use fall tomatoes?

Fall tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

• Salads
• Salsas
• Stews
• Pizzas
• Sauces
• Dried tomatoes

Fall tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the flavors of the season.

When to plant fall tomatoes in Texas depends on a few factors, including the climate zone, the variety of tomato you choose, and your personal preferences.

In general, you can start planting fall tomatoes in Texas from late July to early August. However, if you live in a cooler climate zone, you may need to wait until early September. And if you want to grow a determinate variety of tomato, which matures all at once, you’ll need to plant it earlier, in late July or early August.

Once you’ve chosen a planting date, you’ll need to prepare your soil. Tomatoes do best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is sandy or clayey, you’ll need to amend it with compost or manure.

When planting your tomatoes, space them 2 to 3 feet apart. Be sure to water them regularly, and fertilize them every few weeks. You can also use a tomato cage or stake to support your plants as they grow.

Fall tomatoes are a delicious and rewarding way to extend your gardening season. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh tomatoes from your own garden all the way through the winter months.

Here are some key takeaways to remember when planting fall tomatoes in Texas:

• Choose a planting date based on your climate zone and the variety of tomato you choose.
• Prepare your soil by amending it with compost or manure.
• Space your plants 2 to 3 feet apart.
• Water your plants regularly and fertilize them every few weeks.
• Use a tomato cage or stake to support your plants as they grow.

With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh tomatoes from your own garden all the way through the winter months.