Introduction
Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops grown in home gardens. They are relatively easy to care for and provide a bountiful harvest throughout the summer months. With so many tomato varieties to choose from, it can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll discuss the best tomato plants to grow in your garden.
Determinate vs. Indeterminate
Before we dive into specific tomato varieties, it’s important to understand the difference between determinate and indeterminate tomato plants. Determinate tomatoes grow to a certain size and then stop, making them a great choice for small gardens or container gardens. Indeterminate tomatoes grow continuously throughout the season and require more space and support.
Best Tomato Plants to Grow
1. Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a favorite among gardeners. They are easy to grow and produce an abundance of small, sweet tomatoes. Varieties such as ‘Sungold’, ‘Sweet 100’, and ‘Yellow Pear’ are popular choices.
2. Beefsteak Tomatoes
Beefsteak tomatoes are known for their large, meaty fruits. They are perfect for sandwiches and slicing up for salads. ‘Brandywine’, ‘Cherokee Purple’, and ‘Big Boy’ are all popular beefsteak varieties.
3. Roma Tomatoes
Roma tomatoes are great for making sauces and canning. They have a thicker flesh and fewer seeds than other varieties. ‘Roma’ and ‘San Marzano’ are popular choices.
4. Heirloom Tomatoes
Heirloom tomatoes are known for their unique colors and flavors. They are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations of gardeners. Varieties such as ‘Black Krim’, ‘Green Zebra’, and ‘Purple Cherokee’ are all popular choices.
5. Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes are similar to cherry tomatoes but have an oblong shape. They are great for snacking and adding to salads. ‘Juliet’, ‘Grape’, and ‘Sweet Olive’ are popular grape tomato varieties.
Conclusion
No matter what variety of tomato you choose, make sure to provide them with plenty of sunlight, water, and nutrients. By selecting the best tomato plants for your garden, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest throughout the summer months.