Get ready for tomato success!
If you went too early with your tomatoes I'll bet you are dying to get them outside now.
Whether you’re growing classic red varieties, juicy yellow cherry types, or something a bit more exotic, the key to success lies in the preparation—and timing. As someone who’s been growing tomatoes for years (and still gets excited at the first ripe one of the season), I can tell you that getting it right before you plant out is half the battle.
Let’s walk through the five essential things you need to know before planting your tomatoes outside, including a few trusty tools from Haxnicks that make the whole process easier and more productive.
1) When to Plant Tomatoes Outside in the UK
Wait until the frost is gone for good - avoid late frosts and choose the right time to plant.
Tomatoes are sun-loving, heat-seeking plants. If they had a passport, they’d be booking holidays back to the Med. So, it’s crucial not to rush things when it comes to planting them outside. In the UK, the general rule is to wait until all risk of frost has passed. This typically means late May to early June, depending on where you are.
Keep an eye on your local forecast. Even one chilly night can knock your tomatoes back or kill them altogether. If you’re itching to plant early, you could always use a cloche to provide some extra warmth—Haxnicks’ Tomato Cloche is a brilliant option if you are growing tomatoes in containers. If you are growing in the ground then the Tomato Crop Booster frame and Cover can be pooped over your tomatoes to keep them safe from frost and protect them from the elements.
2) How to Prepare Soil for Tomato Plants
Feed the soil before you feed the plant - rich, well-drained soil is the goal.
Tomatoes are greedy. They want nutrient-rich soil, excellent drainage, and a bit of warmth. Before planting, give your soil a good going-over. Start by weeding the area and removing any debris from previous plantings. Then dig in plenty of organic matter—well-rotted compost or manure works wonders.
You’ll also want to add a balanced fertiliser to give your tomatoes the nutrients they need to thrive. A fish, blood, and bone mix is a good all-rounder. Make sure the soil isn’t too heavy—if you’ve got clay soil, work in some sand or grit to help with drainage.
For those planting in containers, the Haxnicks Tomato Patio Planters are ideal. They are specifically designed for growing tomatoes, with deep sides for strong root development and built-in drainage to prevent soggy soil. If you are growing cordon tomatoes and want to make things even easier then the Tomato Climbing planter (shown) comes with its own support.
3) Where to Grow Tomatoes for Best Results
Find the best sunny spot for outdoor tomatoes - tomatoes love the sun—but shelter is key
Tomatoes need a full six to eight hours of sunlight a day to really thrive, so choose the sunniest spot in your garden. South-facing areas are ideal. That said, they also like a bit of protection from the wind. A warm wall or fence can act as a windbreak and reflect extra heat onto your plants.
Avoid low-lying areas where cold air tends to settle. Tomatoes don’t like having cold feet. If your garden is prone to chilly pockets, consider growing your tomatoes in raised beds or containers that can be moved if needed.
For vertical support, you’ll need a reliable frame as your plants grow. The Tomato Crop Booster frame is a real gem. It offers excellent stability for growing tomatoes (so the plants put all of their energy into growing fruit) and there is even a Cover available to encourage early growth and extend the growing season.
4) Best Gardening Tools for Planting Tomatoes
You don’t need a shed full of kit to grow great tomatoes, but a few well-chosen tools can make things smoother. Here are my top picks from Haxnicks that we use year after year:
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Haxnicks Bamboo Plant Markers – If you’re growing multiple varieties, these are a must to keep track.
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Haxnicks Rootrainers – Perfect for starting tomato seeds or hardening off young plants before they go outside. The deep cells encourage healthy root growth and make transplanting easier.
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Haxnicks Easy Tunnels (poly or fleece) – Great for warming up the soil before planting and giving tender plants a gentle start outside. The poly version adds warmth, while the fleece adds a bit of frost protection.
Having the right equipment on hand helps you stay organised and gives your tomatoes the best possible start. The little things matter!
5) Best Tomato Planters for Outdoor Growing
Why the right container makes all the difference
Not all containers are created equal - if you’re growing in pots or bags, the container you choose is crucial. Tomatoes need room to grow as tomatoes are big plants. They also need a consistent water supply to prevent problems like blossom end rot or splitting.
The Haxnicks Tomato Patio Planters are tailor-made for the job. they are deep enough to support healthy roots and come with handy slots for canes, so you can train your plants upwards without them toppling over. If you’re limited on space—say, you’ve only got a balcony or courtyard—this is your go-to option.
Don’t forget to mulch the top of the soil to keep moisture in and weeds out. A good layer of straw, grass clippings, or even a Haxnicks Natural Jute Tree Mat can help maintain consistent moisture levels, which tomatoes absolutely love.
Final Thoughts: A Little Love Goes a Long Way
Growing tomatoes outside in the UK can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you get that first bite of homegrown goodness. But don’t forget—it’s all about the preparation. Wait until the weather is warm and stable, choose your site wisely, feed the soil, and invest in the right tools.
With a bit of planning and a few bits from the Haxnicks range, you’ll be well on your way to a summer of delicious tomatoes. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll already be dreaming up recipes—fresh tomato salad, pasta sauce, or maybe just sliced on toast with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Heaven!
Happy planting—and may your tomato harvest be your best yet!