What are the Best Tomatoes to Plant for Canning?

Canning is a great way to preserve the delicious and healthy goodness of your garden's ripe fruits and vegetables, and tomatoes are no exception. However, not all tomatoes are created equal, and some types are better suited for canning than others. In this article, we will explore the best tomatoes to plant for canning, so you can enjoy the taste of summer all year long.

Determinate vs Indeterminate Tomatoes

Before we dive into specific tomato varieties, it's important to understand the difference between determinate and indeterminate tomatoes. Determinate tomatoes are typically smaller, bushier plants that produce most of their fruit at once, making them ideal for canning. Indeterminate tomatoes, on the other hand, are larger plants that continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season, making them better suited for fresh eating. When planting tomatoes for canning, it's best to choose determinate varieties.

Roma Tomatoes

Roma tomatoes are one of the most popular and well-known varieties for canning. This is because they have a thick flesh, low moisture content, and fewer seeds, making them ideal for making tomato sauces, salsas, and paste. Roma tomatoes are also resistant to most tomato diseases, which makes them a reliable choice for canning. They are commonly found in most garden centers and seed catalogs, and they grow well in containers or in-ground gardens.

San Marzano Tomatoes

San Marzano tomatoes are another great choice for canning, especially for making tomato paste and sauces. This Italian heirloom variety is known for its sweet, rich flavor and firm texture, which makes it a great addition to any tomato-based dish. Like Roma tomatoes, San Marzano tomatoes have a low moisture content, making them easy to process and can. They also have a longer shelf life than most other tomato varieties.

Amish Paste Tomatoes

Amish Paste tomatoes are a relatively new and somewhat unknown variety, but they are quickly gaining popularity among canners. This variety produces large, meaty tomatoes with a juicy flesh that is perfect for making sauces and paste. They have a slightly sweeter flavor than Roma tomatoes and are resistant to cracking, which makes them a good choice for canning. Amish Paste tomatoes are also known for their strong, vigorous growth, and disease resistance, making them a reliable option for home gardeners.

Yellow Pear Tomatoes

While not as traditional as Roma or San Marzano tomatoes, yellow pear tomatoes are a great option for canning if you want to add a little variety to your pantry. This heirloom variety produces small, pear-shaped tomatoes with a sweet, juicy flavor. They are great for pickling or making sweet and tangy relishes. They can also be mixed with other tomato varieties for added color and flavor. Yellow pear tomatoes are a great choice for container gardening and are also resistant to most tomato diseases.

Conclusion

Selecting the right tomato variety is essential for canning success. Roma, San Marzano, Amish Paste, and Yellow Pear tomatoes are all excellent choices for canning, with each variety bringing its unique flavor and texture to the table. Make sure to plant determinate varieties for optimal yield, and don't forget to follow safe canning practices to ensure your canned tomatoes last all year long.