How to Protect Tomatoes on Cold Nights (2024)

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As weather cools,should you take steps to protect tomatoes on the vine or should you pick them?

The question applies not just as fall approaches, but evenduring a cold snap or when the temperature is forecast to dip overnight.

One fact is certain: tomatoes do NOT like to be cold.

But tomato plants can survive a cold snap or even a seriesof cool nights. When the soil temperatures surpass 60ºF during the day, thentomato roots will retain much of that heat even during an evening cool-down,especially when plants are mulched.

However, tomato plant survival and tomato plant growth aretwo different matters. Whether or not tomatoes thrive through cold depends notjust on temperatures, but also on the length of exposure to cold, wind, andconditions.

Use a Thermometer to Know Actual Temperature

Keep in mind that your tomato garden is in its ownmicro-climate. Your local forecast will differ from what takes place in yourbackyard or on your patio. Set a thermometer at plant level to monitor airtemperatures that will directly impact your tomato plants.

Use a Cover to Protect Tomatoes

When frost or temperatures are in the forecast for overnight(mid-30s or even 40ºF), cover yourtomato plants with clear plastic or a tarp. If you face an extended coldpattern, consider using quality frost protection regularly.

Use Light to Add Warmth

Set up a work light – or even a string of Christmas lights –underneath the tarp or plastic to get plants a bit of extra heat.

Water Plants to Protect Them from Cold

Well-hydrated plants tend to tolerate cooler or near-freezingtemperatures better than dry ones. Deeply water tomato plants when cold nightsare in the forecast.

Remove Coverings in the Morning

Temperatures between 38ºF and 55ºF won't kill tomato plants,but keeping them covered for an extended amount of time can. Remove coveringsin the morning or once temperatures rise over 50ºF to give them extra light andwarmth.

Grow Cold-Tolerant or Short-Season Tomato Varieties

Protecting tomato plants from the cold begins well beforethe calendar turns over to the fall. If you live in a northern area, have ashort growing season, or are growing a second crop in one season, then considerchoosing early tomato varieties or varieties that tolerate cold.

Look Out for This in Cooler Weather

Blossom drop. If your tomato plants are still producingflowers, be especially careful to protect them when cool nights (consistentlybelow 55ºF) are in the forecast. Cold temperatures contribute to tomato blossomdrop – what happens when a healthy tomato plant flowers, but no fruit developsas a result of plant stress or poor pollination.
Dropped fruit. When temperatures are forecast to dip below50ºF, make extra efforts to protect tomatoes on the vine. Fruit tends to dropoff the plant when temperatures drop, too.

More Ways to Protect Plants

Protecting plants from frost: FAQs ...

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