May I set out my tomato plants if the overnight forecast is cold?

by Bill
(central Oregon)

Q. If I put my tomatoes out in pots on the patio, will they survive a temp of 26 degrees F if covered at night - or should I wait? I am out of room in the garage.

A. Do everything you can to wait until overnight temperatures are at least 40 degrees or above before setting your tomato plants outside. Tomatoes do NOT like to be cold. They may survive a snap, but consistently cold temperatures could set them back, damage leaves, or slow their growth.

If you must get them out of your garage, use extra care with frost protection. Try Red Tomato Teepees from Gardener's Supply or
Bag XL Frost Protection Plant Covers from Garden.com to give extra protection designed specifically for overnight cold.

Good luck and happy gardening!
Your friends at Tomato Dirt