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There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own tomatoes. And if you’re a fan of continuous harvests all season long, indeterminate tomatoes should be your go-to variety. But what are indeterminate tomatoes? And what varieties should you consider for your garden? Let’s explore.
What are Indeterminate Tomatoes?
Tomato plants can be divided into two main categories: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate varieties, also known as bush tomatoes, grow to a certain height, set fruit, and then stop growing, usually ripening their fruit in a short period.
On the other hand, indeterminate tomatoes keep growing, flowering, and setting fruit until the first frost. These vining plants can reach impressive heights of up to 12 feet, although 6 to 10 feet is more common.
Indeterminate tomatoes are ideal for gardeners who wish to enjoy a steady supply of tomatoes throughout the season. They’re perfect for salads, sandwiches, sauces, or simply enjoying fresh off the vine.
Growing Indeterminate Tomatoes
Growing indeterminate tomatoes requires some preparation and care. They need a sunny spot and well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 6.8. To support their sprawling growth, a sturdy stake or trellis is a must.
Plant your tomatoes deep, so a good portion of the stem is under the soil. This encourages strong root development. Remember to water regularly, keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and prune for good air circulation and productivity.
Indeterminate Tomato Varieties to Consider
Now that you’re familiar with what indeterminate tomatoes are and how to grow them, you might be wondering which varieties to plant. Here’s a list of popular indeterminate tomato varieties to consider for your garden:
- Brandywine: An old-fashioned favourite with a sweet yet tangy flavor.
- Sweet Million: Known for producing an abundance of sweet, small cherry tomatoes.
- Cherokee Purple: Offers deep, rich flavors with a colour to match.
- Sungold: Produces clusters of small, gold-coloured tomatoes with tropical sweetness.
- Green Zebra: Striking green and yellow stripes with a tangy flavor.
- Black Krim: Dark red to chocolate brown fruits with a rich, savoury flavor.
- Beefsteak: Famous for their large size and meaty texture.
- Celebrity: An all-purpose tomato with disease resistance and great flavor.
- San Marzano: A classic Italian variety ideal for sauces and pastes.
- Super Sweet 100: True to its name, this variety is incredibly sweet and grows in long clusters.
Growing indeterminate tomatoes can be a rewarding endeavour, providing you with a continuous harvest of fresh, delicious tomatoes throughout the growing season. With plenty of varieties to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one to suit your taste buds and meet your gardening needs.