2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Tomatoes in Missouri
Complete guide to growing tomatoes in Missouri with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the tomatoes growing season in Missouri. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
60°F (16°C) minimum
Growing Period
70-90 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 10
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 18
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing tomatoes in Missouri.
January - March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April - May
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
June
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
July - September
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
October - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Tomatoes Varieties for Missouri
These varieties have proven performance in Missouri's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Celebrity | Missouri climate |
| 2 | Better Boy | Missouri climate |
| 3 | Roma | Missouri climate |
| 4 | Cherokee Purple | Missouri climate |
Growing Tips for Missouri
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Missouri farmers.
Wait until soil warms to 60°F
Mulch heavily to retain moisture
Septoria leaf spot common — avoid overhead irrigation
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Tomato hornworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Whiteflies
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Late blight
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Fusarium wilt
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside tomatoes, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
April 10
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 18
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant tomatoes in Missouri?
The optimal planting window for tomatoes in Missouri is April 20 to May 20. Soil temperature should reach at least 60°F (16°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 70-90 days.
What varieties of tomatoes grow best in Missouri?
The best varieties for Missouri include Celebrity, Better Boy, Roma, Cherokee Purple. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest tomatoes in Missouri?
The harvest window for tomatoes in Missouri is typically July 10 to September 30. The crop takes 70-90 days from planting to reach maturity.
Get planting reminders for Tomatoes in Missouri
Sign up for free alerts when it's time to plant, fertilize, and harvest.
Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Missouri Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.