Temperature for Tomato Mulch and Soil

Season

• Tomatoes require warm-weather starts and long growing seasons; they fail in cold soil or air temperatures. Wait until after last frost to plant these cold-sensitive plants, to ensure soil and nighttime air temperatures of 60 degrees F. The plants fail in temperatures under 50 degrees F.

Ideal Temperatures

• According to the University of Missouri Extension, tomato plants grow and produce best in a specific temperature range. Ideal soil and air temperatures fall between 75 and 85 degrees F. Temperatures over 92 degrees F damage growth, fruit development and ripening of tomatoes.

Soil and Nutrition

• Amending the soil before planting dries and warms the foundation where the roots will grow and builds nutritional support for the tomatoes. Turn the top 10 inches of soil over -- waiting until it thaws before attempting to work it in colder climates -- and add 5 inches of organic compost. Mix 8-32-16 or 6-24-24 fertilizer into the top 4 inches of soil for better root growth. Use organic compost and fertilizer from your compost bin or direct from the bag.

Site and Support

• Tomatoes require full sunshine all day to stay warm enough, and to bear their fruit. Choose a site that gets good sun exposure and drainage, and use stakes, trellis systems or tomato cages to support the tomatoes as they grow. Good sun and air circulation keeps tomato plants going even in fall, when temperatures start to drop toward 60 degrees F.

Mulch

• Add mulch directly from the store or garage, regardless of temperature. The mulch collects and holds warmth from the sun and quickly warms to air and soil temperature. Mulch is important for tomatoes as it keeps soil moist and warm and works to restrict weed growth.