Which tomato is right for you?

Which tomato is right for you? The answer depends on several factors, including location, space and deciding what you want from your plant. Tomato plants need sunlight to grow well; a minimum of 7 hours. The more sunlight, the better the plant will produce.  Regarding space, on the average a tomato will take up about four square feet, considering the staking involved to keep your plant upright. Next, tomatoes tend to fall into two categories, determinate and indeterminate.

Determinate type tomatoes (often called bush tomatoes) grow to around 3' to 4' and then set their all at once. These tomatoes are ideal if you’re planning to do some canning or make salsa. Determinate tomato types include 'Ace' and 'Health Kick'.

Indeterminate type tomatoes will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. It is not unusual for indeterminate tomato plants to grow over 8' tall. 'Brandywine' and 'Indigo Rose' are examples of indeterminate tomatoes.  Another deciding factor is the choice between heirloom and hybrid tomatoes.

Heirloom tomatoes are varieties that have been produced for generations. Some have production records going back 100 years. Two favorite heirloom tomatoes include 'Cherokee Purple' and 'Dinner Plate'. Hybrid tomatoes are a cross between two different tomatoes. Hybrid tomatoes are typically what you would find in the supermarket. Some favorite hybrid tomatoes are 'First Lady' and 'Early Girl'. Some varieties of tomatoes have been developed especially for container growing.

These include 'Red Robin' and 'Megabite'. These are great for your patio or in a hanging basket! The varieties listed are just a few of the dozens of tomatoes which can be grown here successfully.

Whether you select one of the tomatoes listed or choose from the dozens of varieties available, you’ll discover nothing beats the taste and juiciness of a homegrown tomato.