Growing Tomatoes in Maryland

It’s still a little early but tomatoes can be planted now with a little bit of help. Just make sure you cover them any time there is a chance of frost. Below is a quick, helpful guide to planting tomatoes in Maryland.

We currently have tomato plants in stock if you are looking for an early start.

How to Plant Tomatoes in Maryland

·       Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in Maryland. They are relatively easy to grow and can be harvested for months during the summer and fall. However, there are a few things you need to know in order to successfully plant and grow tomatoes in Maryland.

When to Plant Tomatoes in Maryland

·       The best time to plant tomatoes in Maryland is in the spring, after the last frost. The average last frost date in Maryland is around May 1st. However, it is important to check the weather forecast before planting your tomatoes, as there is always a chance of a late frost.

Where to Plant Tomatoes in Maryland

·       Tomatoes need full sun to grow well. They should be planted in a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. If your soil is not well-drained, you can improve it by adding sand or gravel. You can also add compost or manure to the soil to improve its fertility.

How to Plant Tomatoes in Maryland

·       To plant tomatoes, start by preparing the soil. If you are planting in the ground, loosen the soil with a shovel or tiller. If you are planting in containers, fill the container with potting soil.

·       Next, plant the tomato plants. Space the plants 2-3 feet apart. Bury the tomato plants up to the first set of leaves.

·       Water the tomato plants well after planting. Keep the soil moist, but not wet.

How to Care for Tomatoes in Maryland

·       Tomatoes need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plants deeply, at least once per week. If the weather is hot and dry, you may need to water the plants more often.

·       Tomatoes also need to be fertilized regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every two weeks.

·       In addition to watering and fertilizing, you will also need to stake or cage your tomato plants. This will help to support the plants as they grow and produce fruit.

When to Harvest Tomatoes in Maryland

·       Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are ripe. The color of the tomato will vary depending on the variety. Some tomatoes will turn red when they are ripe, while others will turn orange, yellow, or even green.

·       To harvest a tomato, simply twist it off the stem. Be careful not to damage the stem, as this can make it difficult for the plant to produce new fruit.

Growing tomatoes in Maryland is a rewarding experience. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh tomatoes from your own garden all summer long.

Stop into our garden center and speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members about getting your tomatoes growing this year!