What species of tomatoes to plant in North Idaho

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable choice for many Idaho gardeners. They are easy to grow and full of nutritional value. Tomatoes come in many different species, and selecting the right type to plant in North Idaho can be a daunting task. Today, we are going to help you choose the best species of tomatoes to plant in North Idaho.

Determinate Tomatoes

If you are looking for tomatoes that will ripen all at once, determinate tomatoes are the way to go. These tomatoes grow to a predetermined height, and their fruit will all ripen around the same time. Determinate tomatoes are perfect for canning or making sauce since you can harvest them all at once. Popular varieties of determinate tomatoes include Roma and San Marzano.

Indeterminate Tomatoes

For those who prefer to have a continuous harvest of tomatoes throughout the season, indeterminate tomatoes are the best choice. Indeterminate tomatoes will continue to produce fruit until the frost kills the plant. Some of the most popular varieties of indeterminate tomatoes include beefsteak, cherry, and heirloom tomatoes. These tomatoes require support as the plant grows, and they can reach up to six feet or more.

Cool-Climate Tomatoes

The growing season in North Idaho is relatively short due to the cool climate. However, growers can still get a good crop of tomatoes by selecting varieties that do well in cooler temperatures. For example, Early Girl and Stupice are two varieties of tomatoes that have a shorter growing season and can tolerate cooler temperatures. These cool-climate varieties will mature quickly and give a good yield even in the shorter growing seasons.

Heirloom Tomatoes

In recent years, many gardeners have turned to heirloom tomatoes because of their unique characteristics, such as their taste, color, and shape. These tomatoes are different from hybrid ones because they have been passed down through generations without being genetically modified. Heirloom tomatoes are often grown for their flavor, and they come in different sizes, shapes, and colors. Popular heirloom varieties include Brandywine, Cherokee Purple, and Pink Oxheart.

Disease-Resistant Tomatoes

Tomatoes can be susceptible to many different diseases, including blight, wilt, and blossom end rot. Disease-resistant tomatoes are varieties that have been bred to be resistant to these diseases. This type of plant will save growers a lot of time, money, and frustration by producing healthy and robust plants. Some of the common disease-resistant tomato varieties include Celebrity, Mountain Fresh, and Defiant.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a popular and easy-to-grow vegetable in North Idaho. When choosing what species of tomatoes to plant in your garden, it is essential to consider your growing conditions and needs. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options and choose the best tomato species for your garden. Happy gardening!