When to Plant Tomatoes in the UK

Tomatoes grow best in warm conditions and are sensitive to cold weather. In the UK, tomato seeds are usually started indoors in early spring and moved outside later in the season.

Planting at the right time helps tomato plants grow strongly and produce fruit.

Starting tomato seeds indoors

Tomato seeds are usually started indoors between February and April.

A warm, bright windowsill or greenhouse works well.

Seeds grow slowly at first but develop quickly as temperatures rise.

Moving tomatoes outdoors

Tomato plants can usually be moved outdoors after the last frost, often in late May in many parts of the UK.

Plants should be hardened off gradually before being planted outside.

This helps them adjust to cooler temperatures and wind.

Growing tomatoes in greenhouses

Tomatoes can be planted earlier in a greenhouse because temperatures stay warmer.

Greenhouse tomatoes often grow faster and produce earlier fruit.

Choosing the right timing

Tomatoes planted too early may struggle in cold soil, while late planting can shorten the growing season.

Waiting for warmer conditions usually produces the best results.

For growing advice, see how to grow tomatoes in the UK.