How to Grow Tomatoes in the Fall
- 1). Buy large nursery-grown transplants that can survive the shock of being transplanted in the heat of late summer. These established plants develop additional roots and mature quickly, and while they may cost more initially, they'll outproduce smaller plants, according to Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
- 2). Consult a local extension office for the last realistic date to plant tomatoes in your area or check a local guide that lists the first expected frost date for your area and calculate backwards to determine planting times. For example, if the tomato variety you are growing needs 55 days to ripen and the first frost date is Nov. 1, plant by Sept. 1 to allow it time to mature.
- 3). Plant tomatoes in the evening to minimize heat shock. Water them well after planting. Spread 1/2 cup of 10-10-10 fertilizer around the plant after planting and again during flowering.
- 4). Monitor the tomato plants for moisture levels and water them as needed to maintain consistently moist soil. The hot temperatures prevalent during late summer and early fall quickly scorch young tomato plants.
- 5). Lay a garden fabric or sun shield over the tomato plants on hot days to protect them from sun scald.
- 6). Pick tomatoes if frost threatens. Store them in a cool, dark location, such as a basement, in a single layer. A cardboard box works well. Check them frequently and use them as soon as they ripen. Don't refrigerate them, since cold temperatures ruin the flavor of tomatoes.
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