Guest Columnist
Weather this year has made deciding when to transplant vegetables in the garden somewhat difficult. Young tomato plants for example, are tender yet hearty in some aspects. Further, they have the ability to protect themselves with your help.
During the day, tomatoes accomplish photosynthesis. The process produces a cooling effect in the immediate vicinity. At night, the process reverses, taking in oxygen and giving off carbon dioxide. Fortunately for us, this reversal is only 10% as effective at photosynthesis. The reversal process, however, does have a positive effect for the plants, as it generates heat.
When there is a freeze or frost projected, covering the tomato plant(s) with a row cover can protect from a frost. Placing an individual cover that induces darkness can protect from both a frost and a light freeze. Once the tomato plant is convinced it’s nighttime, the process will reverse and generate heat, allowing the plant to “ride” though temperatures as low as 28°.
The individual cover needs to be in place by mid-afternoon to allow sufficient heat buildup. Waiting until dark virtually removes the heat protection.
There is some confusion between a frost and freeze. In calm, clear skies, frosts can occur at temperatures as high as 40°. The main key here is the amount of moisture in the air. A frost on plant leaves and stems destroys plant cells and will usually kill the tomato plant. Lower-lying areas are more prone to a frost.
A freeze, occurs when the temperatures gets lower than 32°. Tomato plants, even at a young age can survive a LIGHT freeze. Plant covers lower the killing temperature down to about 27°.
Water plants the afternoon before a projected freeze or frost. Water temperatures change slowly, providing protection. If water should freeze, it’ll emit some heat for more protection.
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