
When to plant tomatoes in zone 5a
In zone 5a, the last spring frost usually comes around May 4 and the first fall frost around Oct 3. Here is when to plant tomatoes.
Start seeds indoorsMar 16
Plant in the bedMay 18
Start pickingJul 27
Your tomato calendar for zone 5a
- Mar 16: Start tomato seeds indoors (or buy plants later)
- May 18: Plant tomatoes in the bed
- Jul 27: Start picking tomatoes
Give each plant a sturdy cage or stake. Water deeply twice a week rather than a little every day.
Spacing in a raised bed: 1 plant per 2 × 2 ft.
These dates are estimates from the average frost dates for zone 5a. Your local frost dates may be a week or two different. If a late cold snap is forecast, wait a few days.
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