What Kind of Tomatoes to Plant

Tomatoes are a staple in most gardens around the world. They’re easy to grow and offer an excellent source of nutrition. With so many different tomato varieties out there, it can be challenging to know which ones to plant in your garden. Below are some of the most popular tomato varieties and what they’re best used for.

Beefsteak Tomatoes

Beefsteak tomatoes are one of the most well-known tomato varieties. They’re large and meaty, making them popular for creating thick slices for sandwiches and burgers. They’re also great for slicing and topping salads. Beefsteak tomatoes have a rich flavor and tend to be less acidic than other tomato varieties, making them a great choice for those with sensitive stomachs.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are small and sweet, making them perfect for snacking or adding to salads. They’re also great for roasting and grilling. These tiny tomatoes come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, and even black. They’re easy to grow and produce prolifically throughout the growing season, making them a popular choice for home gardeners.

Roma Tomatoes

Roma tomatoes are oblong and firm with a meaty texture. They’re great for sauces, paste, and canning. The low water content of Roma tomatoes makes them perfect for use in dishes where extra moisture is not needed. They have a slightly sweet flavor and are less acidic than many other tomato varieties.

Heirloom Tomatoes

Heirloom tomatoes are known for their unique colors and flavors. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small cherry tomatoes to massive beefsteak tomatoes. These tomatoes are not typically found in supermarkets and are highly sought after by foodies and home gardeners alike. Heirloom tomatoes are excellent for eating fresh, but they may not be as prolific as other tomato varieties.

Grape Tomatoes

Grape tomatoes are slightly larger than cherry tomatoes and are a popular choice for snacking and adding to salads. They’re also great for making quick and easy sauces. Grape tomatoes are typically sweeter than cherry tomatoes and have a firm texture, making them a great addition to sandwiches and wraps.

San Marzano Tomatoes

San Marzano tomatoes are a type of Roma tomato that is grown in the San Marzano region of Italy. They’re highly prized for their sweet flavor and low acidity. San Marzano tomatoes are perfect for making sauces and paste. They’re a little harder to find than other tomato varieties, but they’re well worth the effort if you want to make authentic Italian dishes.

Ultimately, the variety of tomato you choose to plant will depend on what you plan to use them for. Whether you’re looking for a meaty tomato for sandwiches or a sweet tomato for snacking, there’s a variety out there that will suit your needs. Happy planting!