If you’re starting a vegetable garden, one of the first questions you might have is, how much are tomato plants at Walmart. This is a smart place to begin, as finding affordable and easy-to-find starter plants is key for a successful season. Walmart is a go-to for many gardeners because of its widespread locations and competitive pricing. Let’s look at what you can expect to spend and how to choose the best plants for your space.
Getting your tomato plants from a big-box store like Walmart is a straightforward process. You’ll typically find a good selection from early spring through early summer. The prices are generally budget-friendly, making it simple to try a few different varieties without a huge investment.
How Much Are Tomato Plants At Walmart
The price of tomato plants at Walmart can vary based on several factors. However, you can expect a general range that fits most gardening budgets. The cost depends mainly on the size of the plant, the type of pot it’s in, and the specific variety.
For the most common starter plants in small plastic pots or cell packs, prices usually start around $3 to $5 per plant. These are often younger seedlings with 4 to 6 inches of growth. They are perfect for transplanting into your garden or a larger container.
Larger, more established plants in bigger pots (often 1-gallon size) will cost more. You might see these priced between $5 and $10 each. These are great if you want a head start on the season or if you got a late start planting. They often already have flowers or small fruit forming.
Occasionally, Walmart carries unique heirloom or specialty varieties. These can sometimes be priced a bit higher, maybe up to $12 for a large, established plant. It’s always a good idea to check the plant tag carefully for details on the type of tomato you’re buying.
What Varieties of Tomato Plants Does Walmart Typically Sell?
Walmart’s garden center usually stocks a mix of popular and reliable varieties. This is great for new gardeners who might feel overwhelmed by hundreds of seed catalog choices. You’ll often find a solid selection of both hybrid and heirloom types.
Common types include:
* Cherry Tomatoes: Like Sweet 100, Sun Gold, or Super Sweet 100. These are prolific and great for snacks.
* Slicing Tomatoes: Beefsteak, Better Boy, and Big Boy are classics for sandwiches.
* Roma or Paste Tomatoes: These are ideal for making sauces, salsas, and canning.
* Patio or Dwarf Varieties: Perfect for container gardening on a balcony or small space.
The selection changes based on your local store and the time of season. Early in the spring, you might find more cold-tolerant varieties. As it warms up, the selection expands. Don’t be afraid to ask a garden center associate if they expect new shipments.
When Is the Best Time to Buy Tomato Plants at Walmart?
Timing is everything in gardening. Buying at the right time ensures you get the best selection and healthiest plants. If you shop to early, you might have to care for the plants indoors before it’s warm enough outside. To late, and the pickings can be slim.
A good general rule is to look for plants after your local last frost date. Walmart garden centers usually stock up in anticipation of this. For most regions, this means:
* Early Spring (March-April): For warmer Southern climates.
* Late Spring (May-Early June): For Northern and cooler climates.
Shopping on a weekday morning can sometimes give you first access to new shipments. The plants will be well-watered and less picked over. Avoid plants that have been sitting in the hot sun without water for to long.
How to Pick the Healthiest Tomato Plants at Walmart
Not all tomato plants are created equal. When you’re at the store, take a few extra minutes to choose the strongest starters. A healthy plant will establish itself faster and produce more fruit for you.
Follow these steps when selecting your plants:
1. Check the Leaves: Look for deep green color. Avoid plants with yellow, brown, or spotted leaves. Also, check the undersides for any signs of insect pests like aphids.
2. Examine the Stem: The stem should be sturdy and thick, not thin and spindly. A good, strong stem indicates the plant has been grown with adequate light.
3. Look at the Overall Shape: Choose a bushy, compact plant over a tall, leggy one. Lots of leaves close together is a sign of good health.
4. Inspect the Roots (Gently): If you can, gently tap the plant out of its pot. The roots should be white or light in color and not completely circling the bottom in a dense mat. Root-bound plants can struggle.
5. Avoid Plants with Flowers or Fruit: This might seem counterintuitive, but a young plant with flowers or fruit is stressed. It’s putting energy into reproduction instead of root growth. It’s better to choose a plant without flowers and let it focus on settling into your garden first.
What You’ll Need to Buy Alongside Your Walmart Tomato Plants
While you’re at the store, you can pick up other essential supplies. Having everything ready makes transplanting day much smoother. Think of it as a one-stop shop for your tomato project.
Your shopping list should likely include:
* Potting Soil or Garden Soil: For container gardening, use a high-quality potting mix. For in-ground planting, a bag of compost or garden soil to amend your native earth is helpful.
* Fertilizer: Tomato plants are heavy feeders. Look for a balanced vegetable fertilizer or one specifically formulated for tomatoes.
* Tomato Cages or Stakes: Tomatoes need support to keep fruit off the ground. These are crucial for healthy growth.
* A Watering Can or Hose Attachment: Consistent watering is key, especially after transplanting.
* Mulch: A bag of straw or wood chip mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
A Simple Guide to Transplanting Your Walmart Tomato Plants
Once you get your affordable plants home, it’s time to get them in the ground. Doing this correctly gives them the best possible start. Here’s a straightforward method to follow.
1. Harden Off the Plants: If the plants have been inside a Walmart greenhouse, let them acclimate to outdoor conditions. Place them in a shaded, sheltered spot for a few hours each day, increasing time and sun exposure over 5-7 days.
2. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the plant’s pot. Mix some compost or a handful of starter fertilizer into the soil at the bottom.
3. Plant Deeply: Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the roots. Bury the stem much deeper than it was in the pot—right up to the first set of leaves. Tomato stems will grow roots along the buried section, making a stronger plant.
4. Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the plant a deep, slow watering to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets around the roots.
5. Add Support and Mulch: Place your cage or stake in the ground now to avoid damaging roots later. Then, apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the stem.
Common Problems and Solutions for Your Garden Tomatoes
Even with healthy starters, you might encounter a few issues. Being able to identify them early makes management easier. Most problems are simple to fix with a little attention.
Watch out for these common things:
* Blossom End Rot: A dark, leathery spot on the bottom of the fruit. This is usually caused by uneven watering which leads to a calcium deficiency. The solution is consistent, deep watering and mulching.
* Cracks in the Fruit: This happens after a heavy rain following a dry period. Again, consistent soil moisture is the best prevention.
* Leaf Curling: Some upward leaf curl is normal in hot weather. Severe curling can indicate over-watering, under-watering, or a viral disease. Assess your watering habits first.
* Pests: Keep an eye out for hornworms (large green caterpillars) and aphids. You can pick off hornworms by hand. A strong spray of water often dislodges aphids.
FAQ: Your Tomato Plant Questions Answered
Q: Are Walmart tomato plants good quality?
A: They can be! The key is your selection. If you follow the tips for choosing a healthy plant, you can get a excellent starter that will thrive. The quality is comparable to other large garden centers.
Q: What is the average price for a tomato plant?
At Walmart, the average price is typically between $4 and $7 for a standard, healthy seedling in a decent-sized pot. This is very affordable compared to some specialty nurseries.
Q: When does Walmart put out tomato plants for sale?
A: This depends on your local climate. Generally, they start arriving in garden centers in early spring, around March or April, and are stocked through June.
Q: Can I buy tomato plants online from Walmart for pickup?
A: Yes, many Walmart locations offer online ordering for garden center items, including plants. You can often select your plants online and schedule a curbside pickup, which is very convenient.
Q: Do Walmart tomato plants come with planting instructions?
A: Yes, every plant should have a tag stuck in the pot. This tag provides basic information on the variety, sun needs, spacing, and days to maturity. It’s your best quick-reference guide.
Starting your garden with tomato plants from Walmart is a practical and economical choice. By knowing what to expect in terms of cost, selection, and quality, you can make informed decisions. Remember, the most important steps happen after you bring them home: careful planting, consistent care, and a little patience. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying the taste of home-grown tomatoes straight from your own garden.