Tips for Summer Tomato Planting in Southern California Coastal-Influence Areas

June 16, 2017 Author: C. Darren Butler GardenZeus Southern California / Nothing But Tomatoes / Organic Gardening: Vegetables / The Mighty Garden Archive

Want to plant tomatoes in June or July but not sure the seasonal timing is right? This article gives tips and advice for succeeding with summer tomato planting in warm-summer, mild-winter California areas, particularly in GardenZeus California Climate Zone 14: Southern Strong Coastal Influence.

See customized advice and information for growing tomatoes in your Southern California zipcode

The same tips and methods can be applied to late tomato planting in many warm-summer, mild-winter California areas.

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It’s full speed ahead with tomato planting throughout the summer in GardenZeus California Climate Zone 14 (Southern areas with strong coastal influence but usually at least a mile from the ocean).

Continue planting seedlings of heat-tolerant varieties (both determinate and indeterminate types) through July, during periods of moderate or cool temperatures. It’s generally best to avoid starting seeds outdoors from about June through August or September in your zone unless you can give close attention to young seedlings, to be sure they receive sufficient water and shade when needed during hot weather. Seedlings may need to be checked and watered at least once or twice per day during warm-to-hot weather for the first 4 or 5 weeks after germination.

In July and August, continue planting seedlings of heat-tolerant determinant varieties, but begin shifting to starting seeds and planting seedlings of cold-tolerant indeterminant or parthenocarpic tomato varieties. Oregan Spring is a great choice for planting all summer and fall in your zone as it will produce tomato fruits during both hot and cold weather.

Consider growing tomatoes in large containers on wheeled carts or wheeled plant stands so you can leave them out into full sun on moderate or warm days and keep them shaded or in cool areas during heatwaves. Container tomatoes will need extra water and attention during hot weather. See Growing Tomatoes in Containers: 5 Steps for Success and GardenZeus Tips for Container Vegetable Gardening.

Plant tomatoes into rich, deep, fertile, and living soil; or use raised beds and large containers filled with fertile topsoil, washed sand, compost, and organic amendments. Chances are low for a good yield when planting tomatoes into previously uncultivated soils especially infertile sandy soils or heavy clay soils.

Mulch well, maintain even soil moisture, and see our customized tomato-growing information, including more seasonal recommendations and customized recommendations for tomato varieties for your zipcode:
See customized advice and information for growing tomatoes in your Southern California zipcode