Planting Tomatoes for a Fall Harvest: How to Grow Fresh Tomatoes Before Frost

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There’s nothing quite like harvesting fresh, homegrown tomatoes late into the season, long after the summer rush has ended. Over the years, I’ve learned that planting tomatoes for a fall harvest can be just as rewarding as growing them in spring—if you plan ahead. In regions where frost arrives late in the year, you can get a second crop of tomatoes by starting new plants in mid to late summer. Instead of waiting for seeds to sprout, I’ve found that using suckers or cuttings from my existing plants is the fastest way to grow strong, productive fall tomatoes. This method not only saves time but also ensures that my second crop is just as healthy and vibrant as the first.

Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that selecting the right varieties is key to success. Early-maturing and heat-tolerant tomatoes, like ‘Celebrity’ and ‘Heatwave,’ perform well when planted in the summer, producing fruit in time for fall harvests. By carefully timing my plantings and providing proper care—such as consistent watering, mulching, and occasional shade from extreme heat—I’ve been able to extend my tomato season well into autumn. If you love homegrown tomatoes as much as I do, follow these tips to enjoy a steady harvest before the first frost sets in.

Why Plant Tomatoes for a Fall Harvest?

If you live in a region where frost arrives late in autumn or early winter, you can enjoy a second tomato harvest by planting in mid to late summer. Fall tomatoes can be sweeter and more flavorful thanks to the cooler nights and reduced summer stress.

Rather than starting from seed, you can use suckers or cuttings from your existing spring-planted tomatoes to establish new plants. This method speeds up growth, allowing you to harvest before the first frost arrives.

How to Root Tomato Suckers and Cuttings

A sucker is a small shoot that forms in the V-shaped space between the main stem and a branch. These can be removed and used to grow new tomato plants. You can also take a cutting from the top foot of a healthy tomato plant.

Steps for Rooting Tomato Suckers:

  1. Select Healthy Growth: Choose a 4 to 5-inch sucker or stem cutting from a disease-free, vigorous tomato plant.
  2. Remove Lower Leaves: Strip the bottom leaves to prevent rot and encourage root growth.
  3. Start in Water (Optional): Place the cutting in a jar of water for an hour or two to hydrate and stimulate root formation.
  4. Plant in Soil: Insert the cutting directly into loose, compost-rich garden soil or in a gallon-sized nursery pot filled with potting mix.
  5. Firm the Soil and Water Well: Keep the soil consistently moist for the first few days to help the cutting establish roots.
  6. Monitor for Growth: In about a week, the cutting should begin to develop roots and new leaf growth.

To ensure success, root multiple cuttings in case some fail to establish.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties for Fall Planting

Not all tomato varieties thrive when planted in summer for a fall harvest. Choose early-season or heat-tolerant varieties that mature within 55 to 70 days to ensure they ripen before frost.

Top Tomato Varieties for Fall Harvest:

  • ‘Celebrity’ – 72 days to harvest; highly disease-resistant and adaptable.
  • ‘Heatwave’ – 68 days to harvest; bred to tolerate high temperatures.
  • ‘Early Girl’ – 57 days to harvest; one of the fastest maturing tomatoes.
  • ‘Glacier’ – 55 days to harvest; tolerates cool weather well.

Timing Your Fall Tomato Planting

To determine the best planting time, count backward from your region’s average first frost date. For example, if frost typically arrives in early November, plant tomatoes at least 70–80 days before that to allow time for fruit production.

If you live in an area with extreme summer heat, start cuttings in containers and grow them in a shaded area until the weather cools slightly, then transplant them into the garden.

Final Tips for a Successful Fall Tomato Harvest

✅ Provide Shade if Needed: If summer temperatures are scorching, protect young transplants with shade cloth until they establish.
✅ Water Consistently: Late summer heat can dry out the soil quickly—deep water at least twice a week.
✅ Mulch Around Plants: Apply a layer of straw, compost, or leaves to regulate soil temperature and moisture.
✅ Protect from Early Frost: If an unexpected frost threatens, cover plants with row covers or blankets overnight to extend the growing season.

By using suckers or cuttings and selecting the right tomato varieties, you can enjoy a second round of juicy, homegrown tomatoes well into fall. Happy planting! 🍅

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Written by Stephen Albert

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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