There are few vegetables as popular as tomatoes when it comes to gardening. Missouri is a great place to grow tomatoes, and many varieties will thrive in our climate. In this blog post, we will discuss the best tomatoes to grow in Missouri and some tips for success. Let’s get started!
Missouri’s Hardiness Zone
Missouri’s climate varies widely from north to south, making it hard to generalize about the state’s planting conditions. However, the USDA Hardiness Zone Map provides a useful guide for gardeners in Missouri.
The map is divided into 11 zones, each corresponding to a range of average annual minimum temperatures. In Missouri, zone 5 extends across the northern part of the state, while zone 7 covers the southern portion. Central Missouri falls into zone 6.
The hardiness zone map is updated periodically as climatic conditions change, so gardeners should consult the most recent version before deciding on planting. By understanding which plants are likely to thrive in their particular climate zone, gardeners in Missouri can choose plants that will be well-suited to their local conditions.
Why Plant Tomatoes in Missouri
Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in various dishes, from salads to sauces. They are also a source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to potential health benefits.
For these reasons, tomatoes are a popular choice for home gardeners. Missouri is an ideal state for growing tomatoes. The climate is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the fruit to ripen fully, resulting in sweet, juicy tomatoes.
Missouri also has a long growing season, giving gardeners ample time to harvest their crops. In addition, the state offers a wide variety of tomato seeds and plants, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect variety for their garden.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, there’s no excuse not to try your hand at growing tomatoes in Missouri.
Varieties That Grow Well In Missouri
Now that we’ve discussed the climate and growing conditions in Missouri, let’s look at some of the best tomato varieties for our state.
Better Boy
The Better Boy tomato is a popular variety known for its large, globe-shaped fruits. The average fruit weighs between 8 and 16 ounces, and the quality is good. The production is abundant, and the plant matures in about 75 days. The Better Boy tomato is a versatile variety used in several dishes. It can be sliced and diced for salads, used as a topping on pizzas and sandwiches, or cooked down into a sauce. This tomato variety is good for both home gardeners and commercial growers.
Big Beef Plus
Big Beef Plus is an improved version of the classic Big Beef tomato. Like its predecessor, it is an All-America Selections award winner. The fruits are smooth with intensely red interiors, and they may weigh 10 to 12 ounces.
Big Beef Plus is also more disease resistant and adapting than the original Big Beef, making it a great choice for gardeners in various climates. The plant produces abundant fruit, and the tomatoes are typically ready to harvest in about 73 days.
Celebrity
Celebrity is a popular determinate tomato variety that was an All-America Selections winner in 1984. It is known for its short, bushy vines and firm, red fruits that weigh 7 to 8 ounces.
Celebrity tomatoes are highly productive, with a first harvest expected in about 70 days. Plants are resistant to many common diseases, such as fusarium wilt and verticillium wilt.
While celebrity tomatoes are typically enjoyed fresh, they can also be used in recipes that call for cooked tomatoes, such as sauce or soup.
Early Girl
Early Girl tomatoes are a popular variety for home gardeners who want to enjoy freshly-picked tomatoes as early as possible. As the name suggests, Early Girl tomatoes mature in only 52 days, making them one of the earliest varieties available.
These medium-sized tomatoes (4-6 ounces each) grow in abundance on indeterminate plants. When growing Early Girl tomatoes, it’s best to plant them alongside another variety, as they will provide early tomatoes while the other variety matures.
You can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh tomatoes throughout the growing season!
Best tomatoes to grow in Missouri: Conclusion
Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in various ways. Missouri is an ideal state for growing tomatoes, with its warm climate and long growing season.
There are many different varieties of tomatoes that will do well in Missouri so that everyone can find the perfect type for their garden. You can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes with a little care and attention!
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