Growing Awesome Tomatoes
- Posted on
- By Zocalo
Curious about the differences between determinate and indeterminate tomatoes? We're here to help you sort the difference. Plus, we have a few recommendations for tomatoes we think you will love growing (and eating) this summer!
What's the difference between a ‘DETERMINATE’ and an ‘INDETERMINATE’ Tomato?
DETERMINATE varieties of tomatoes are also called “BUSH” tomatoes. They are varieties that are bred to grow to a compact height (average 4 feet or less).
• Determinate tomatoes stop growing when fruit sets on the “terminal” or top bud of the plant. They ripen all of their crop at or near the same time (usually over a 2 week period) and then start to die
• These tomatoes require CAGING and/or STAKING for support.
• They SHOULD NOT be pruned or “suckered” as it severely reduces the crop production.
• Determinate tomatoes produce relatively well in a good sized container (at least 5 gallons)
INDETERMINATE varieties of tomatoes are sometimes called “VINING” tomatoes. They will grow and produce fruit until killed by frost.
• These tomatoes can reach tall heights of up to 10 feet (6 feet average).
• Indeterminate tomatoes will bloom, set fruit and ripen fruit all at the same time
• Throughout the growing season these plants require SUBSTANTIAL CAGING and/or STAKING for support.
• Pruning of suckers (small leaves growing between plant branches) is recommended to encourage fruit set.
Five Tomatoes To Grow This Summer
1) Black Prince
Black Prince tomatoes are an indeterminate, heirloom tomato (from native species, not hybridized). Their skin and flesh is black-red or deep mahogany brown. They have a distinctive flavour: rich and almost smoky tomato flavour with a low acidity. Grow the Black Prince and you'll be dealing with tomato royalty.
2) Early Girl
The Early Girl is aptly named, as it is one of the fastest and earliest ripening types of tomatoes. This variety of tomato is prolific and reliable. It is indeterminate, and it produces good, midsize red fruit. Earlier to ripen, earlier to eat and enjoy!
3) Lemon Boy
Lemon Boy is an indeterminate tomato and is highly prolific. Theses tomatoes have mild, sweet, medium-sized fruit and are great for slicing. Your bright, sunny yellow tomatoes are sure to brighten your plate.
4) San Marzano
The San Marzano tomato is a plum tomato variety, and it is known for its distinctive, sweeter flavour and quality as both a sauce and a canning tomato. It is a determinate tomato that originated in San Marzano sul Sarno, Salerno, Italy. Delizioso!
5) Sweet Million
These are a highly prolific, red cherry tomato. Sweet Millions are an indeterminate tomato and, as the name suggests, they produce masses of sweet, uniform, crack-resistant fruit. Sweet currency, indeed!
