Ah, the steadfast determinate tomatoes – nature’s nod to those who appreciate a little order in gardening chaos! While they might not strive for endless heights, they’ve mastered the art of focused productivity.
For advocates of things coming in small packages, determinate tomatoes personify this belief. Today, we’ll delve into these pragmatic plants, uncovering their unique traits and diverse range.
Whether you’re a careful gardener with limited space or just someone who likes their tomatoes orderly, come discover the charming world of determinate tomatoes!
What are determinate tomatoes?
Determinate tomatoes belong to a specific group of tomato plants have a built-in height limit. This growth style gives them a more compact, bush-like appearance, which works great for smaller spaces and container gardening.
Determinate types usually produce and ripen their fruit in a shorter time frame. That’s a win for gardeners who want a controlled harvest.
The way they grow makes determinate tomatoes a perfect fit for those with limited gardening space or those aiming to get a bunch of ripe tomatoes all at once.
Types of Determinate Tomatoes
Determinate tomatoes are categorized based on their growth habits and fruit characteristics. Let’s look at some common types of determinate tomatoes.
Cherry Determinate Tomatoes
These varieties produce small, easy-to-snack-on tomatoes. We recommend trying some as they’re perfect for nibbling or adding to salads.
They also come in various colors. Think red, yellow, and even darker tones like black or brown for a bit of culinary pop!
Plum Determinate Tomatoes
Often referred to as paste tomatoes, these types showcase an oval or cylindrical shape. Plum tomatoes are well-loved for their dense texture and lower moisture content, perfect for making sauces, pastes, and preserving.
Round Determinate Tomatoes
These tomatoes are the classic round ones and come in various juicy sizes. They’re versatile, perfect for enjoying fresh, slicing, and adding to a variety of dishes.
Grape Determinate Tomatoes
Just like cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes share that cute, elongated, oblong shape. You’ll be surprised though as they bring a sweeter taste than your typical cherry tomato.
We love that they’re the perfect choice for snacking and adding to salads.
Heirloom Determinate Tomatoes
These are special types that have been handed down for generations. Why? It’s because of their one-of-a-kind tastes, colors, and important history!
Novelty Determinate Tomatoes
This group covers tomatoes sporting unique forms, hues, or patterns. Think heart-shaped or striped-skin varieties, for instance, aside from other unique looks.
Container Determinate Tomatoes
Bred to flourish in limited spaces, such as containers or hanging baskets, these types are compact and lush. We think they’re perfect for sprucing up your patio or balcony garden!
Early Determinate Tomatoes
These types reach maturity faster, so you can harvest them sooner. They’re great for areas with shorter growing seasons.
A List of Favorite Determinate Tomatoes to Try
We hope we’ve whetted your appetite for all tomatoes of the determinate type! We’ve even compiled our favorites all in alphabetical order!
Banana Legs
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Fast |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Meet Banana Legs, a standout determinate tomato variant celebrated for its elongated, banana-shaped fruits. Flourishing with ample sunlight, it thrives best with a solid 6 to 8 hours of daily direct light.
Standing at a compact 2 to 3 feet, it’s a perfect pick for container gardening or snug garden spots. In terms of growth, Banana Legs doesn’t waste time, often gifting gardeners its first fruits shortly post-planting.
These vibrant yellow fruits, resembling cute 4 to 5 inch bananas, add a dash of uniqueness to any garden. With devoted care and proper upkeep, cultivators can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these delightfully elongated tomatoes.
Black Sea Man
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Black Sea Man tomatoes are a distinctive determinate variety celebrated for their deep, intense color and flavor richness. The medium-sized fruit showcases a captivating mahogany-brown shade, setting them apart in gardens and kitchens.
Thriving in ample sunlight, these tomatoes flourish with 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily, crucial for unlocking their full flavor potential. Reaching about 3 to 4 feet tall, Black Sea Man tomatoes suit compact spaces, raised beds, or containers.
In gardens, Black Sea Man tomatoes captivate not only with their unique appearance but also a smoky, complex flavor. This remarkable taste makes them prized by both gardeners and culinary enthusiasts.
Bush Early Girl
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Fast |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Ideal for small spaces, it’s a top choice for gardeners dealing with limited growing areas. Its determinate growth means it stays small, perfect for containers and small gardens.
For optimal growth, the Bush Early Girl thrives in full sun, requiring 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. These tomatoes prefer well-draining, fertile soil that holds moisture.
Reaching 18 to 24 inches, it suits both in-ground and container gardening. With faster growth than other varieties, it yields ripe tomatoes early in the season.
Celebrity
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
The Celebrity determinate tomato variety stands as a favored selection among gardeners due to its dependable performance and exceptional fruit quality. It’s all about that sunlight as this tomato craves 6 to 8 hours of it daily.
It’s not picky about soil either as any dirt works for it, but it loves well-draining, nutrient-packed soil with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8. Standing around 3 to 4 feet tall when it’s all grown up, it’s perfect for tight spots and pots.
It grows at a moderate pace and generously gifts you with medium-sized, round, smooth fruits. You can look forward to your Celebrity tomato to thrive and reward you with a bunch of tasty harvests.
Chiquita
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Chiquita tomatoes present a delightful determinate variety, boasting small, circular fruits with a vivid red hue. Their charm lies in their popularity for snug gardens, patios, and container planting due to their compact nature.
They thrive in sunlight and 6 to 8 hours a day is their sweet spot. For best results, use well-draining soil with organic goodness.
Mature Chiquita tomato plants reach about 1 to 1.5 feet tall. They grow moderately, maturing and fruiting 60-70 days after transplanting.
Keep them hydrated consistently to prevent soil shifts and fruit cracks. Mulch around the base retains moisture and keeps weeds away, giving you beautiful fruits that are plump and juicy!
Carolina Gold
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Regular |
Maintenance | Low |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Carolina Gold stands out as a remarkable determinate tomato variety beloved by gardeners for its striking golden-yellow color and exceptional taste. With a mature height of 2 to 3 feet, Carolina Gold shines in small gardens and containers.
This compact tomato plant thrives best under abundant sunlight, needing a steady 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. Flourishing in well-draining soil enriched with organic goodness, it ensures proper water drainage, preventing root rot.
Pruning and staking may be needed to support its fruit-laden branches. Carolina Gold’s beauty lies in its easy maintenance and delightful flavor, an ideal choice for garden enthusiasts seeking both visual charm and culinary delight.
Campbell’s 33
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Campbell’s 33 is a popular determinate tomato variety known for its reliable performance and flavorful fruit. This variety loves the sun, so make sure it gets a good 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.
Stick it in well-draining, good-quality soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8. It won’t tower over your garden either, reaching about 2 to 3 feet in height, perfect for cozy spaces or containers.
These tomatoes have their own schedule – you can expect them to show up with ripe, juicy fruit right on time. And we should mention that these tomatoes are like flavor bombs, great for snacks and cooking adventures.
Defiant PhR
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Regular |
Maintenance | Low |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Reliable |
Defiant PhR is a noteworthy determinate tomato variety known for its disease resistance and reliable yield. Basking in sunlight, this compact plant thrives in sunny spots, perfect for your garden.
It craves well-draining, nutrient-packed soil. Standing at 2 to 3 feet tall, it suits cozy gardens or pots. Growing steadily, it offers a concentrated fruiting period, easing harvesting.
Little upkeep is needed as minimal pruning does the trick. Defying diseases like late blight, it’s a hit among new and seasoned garden enthusiasts alike.
Dixie Red
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Dixie Red stands as a renowned determinate tomato variety, celebrated for its vivid red fruits and exceptional flavor profile. Reaching 2 to 3 feet when mature, Dixie Red is perfect for small gardens, containers, or hanging baskets.
Thriving splendidly in full sun, this compact gem thrives when embraced by 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily, ensuring its growth and fruiting are nothing short of optimal. Its adaptable nature suits various well-draining soils, but it thrives in slightly acidic soil enriched with organic nutrients.
Beyond the garden, its versatility shines as it’s ideal for salads, sauces, and fresh consumption. With its delightful blend of taste and aesthetics, Dixie Red is both a gardener’s joy and a culinary gem.
Fireworks
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Fireworks is a determinate tomato variety known for its vibrant red fruit and compact growth habit, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or container planting. This variety thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
While it’s comfy in various well-draining soils, rich, loamy earth with decent moisture is best. These tomato plants usually grow 2 to 3 feet tall, fitting well in limited spaces.
They grow moderately, yielding fruit in a short span, simplifying harvest. With its manageable size, strong growth, and delightful taste, Fireworks tomatoes beautifully add color and flavor to any garden.
Galahad
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Consistent |
Galahad determinate tomatoes epitomize versatility and compactness, making them a prime selection for gardeners grappling with limited space. Flourishing under the sun’s full embrace, these tomatoes thrive best with a daily dose of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
These tomatoes love well-draining, organic-rich soil for robust growth. With a modest height of 18 to 24 inches, they’re ace for containers or small garden patches.
Galahad’s growth rate is steady, yielding fruits in a predictable window for an efficient harvest. These tomatoes are a top pick for budget-conscious gardeners seeking space-saving yet reliable options.
Gold Nugget
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Gold Nugget is a remarkable determinate tomato variety that flourishes in various garden settings.Standing at 18 to 24 inches, this compact plant yields an abundance of petite, golden-yellow fruits.
Ideal for limited spaces, its structured growth suits container gardens. These tomatoes bask in sunlight, craving six hours of direct exposure daily.
Thriving in well-draining, loamy soil with good moisture, Gold Nugget boasts moderate growth and a swift harvest. Reliably flavorful, it elevates salads and snacks with a pleasing sweet-tangy equilibrium.
Grand Marshall
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Grand Marshall stands out as a popular determinate tomato variety celebrated for its remarkable growth attributes and copious fruit yield. It loves soaking in the sun, craving about 6 to 8 hours of daily sunlight for the best results.
This adaptable plant thrives in various well-draining soils, ideally slightly acidic to neutral. The Grand Marshall tomato plants reach a modest height of 2 to 3 feet, fitting perfectly in cozy gardens, raised beds, or containers.
These tomatoes grow moderately and tend to produce fruit quickly, which suits gardeners wanting a consistent yield. Trim excess leaves for better air circulation and more sunlight, leading to robust fruit production.
Health Kick Hybrid
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Health Kick Hybrid is a notable determinate tomato variety known for its health benefits and compact growth habit. This variety thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily.
It adapts well to diverse soil types but prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil packed with organic goodness. With a height of 2 to 3 feet when mature, it’s perfect for smaller gardens, patios, and containers.
Growing moderately, Health Kick Hybrid usually matures within 70 to 75 days after transplanting. Its tasty, nutrient-packed tomatoes make it a hit among health-conscious gardeners and food enthusiasts.
Micro-Tom
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Rapid |
Maintenance | Low |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Loved for its tiny size and indoor-friendly nature, the Micro-Tom tomato flourishes with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. An ideal pick for windowsills, balconies, or snug outdoor corners, this tiny champion is not very picky at all!
It craves well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and tops out at about 6 to 8 inches, fitting snugly in small pots. Micro-Tom grows fast and within months, you’ll be plucking tiny, tasty cherry tomatoes.
Plus, it’s low maintenance! Just water, feed, and trim occasionally for a steady supply of delicious tiny tomatoes from this petite wonder.
Mountain Delight
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Mountain Delight is a sought-after determinate tomato variety cherished by gardeners for its compact growth and abundant fruit production. Thriving in full sunlight, it requires a well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
It prefers well-draining, rich soil, with a pH range of 6.2 to 6.8. Standing around 3 to 4 feet tall, Mountain Merit keeps things compact and bushy, fitting well into different garden spaces.
Its growth is steady, assuring a good yield in a shorter timeframe. Its success comes from its sun-loving nature, fondness for good drainage, and the need for attentive care, all leading to juicy, tasty tomato harvests!
Mountain Merit
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Steady |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Consistent |
Mountain Merit stands out as a prominent determinate tomato variety that thrives optimally under specific conditions. Flourishing under abundant sunlight, this variety prospers when it receives a dedicated 6 to 8 hours of daily sun exposure.
It prefers well-draining, rich soil, with a pH range of 6.2 to 6.8. Standing around 3 to 4 feet tall, Mountain Merit keeps things compact and bushy, fitting well into different garden spaces.
Its growth is steady, assuring a good yield in a shorter timeframe. For maintenance, regular watering is key, keeping the soil moist without drowning the plant.
Marglobe Improved VF
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Consistent |
Marglobe Improved VF is a popular determinate tomato variety known for its disease resistance and consistent fruit production. This variety thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
It’s not picky about where it sets its roots, but tossing in some organic goodness in the soil definitely makes it do the happy dance. Standing at 3 to 4 feet, it’s a top choice for tight spots or if you’re into growing tomatoes in containers.
Expect medium-sized, red tomatoes with a flavor that hits all the right notes for your kitchen adventures.
Oregon Spring
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Oregon Spring shines as a remarkable determinate tomato variety, cherished by gardeners for its reliable yield. Thriving with ample sunlight, it flourishes with about 6 to 8 hours of daily sun to fuel its growth.
Adaptable to various soils, Oregon Spring thrives in well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic nutrients. Its compact height of 2 to 3 feet makes it ideal for cozy garden corners and containers.
Oregon Spring matures in 60 to 70 days after transplanting. Oregon Spring boasts delicious round red tomatoes, perfect for salads, sandwiches, and countless dishes.
Patio Plum
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Low |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Patio Plum is a popular determinate tomato variety that is well-suited for small spaces and container gardening. This tomato variety doesn’t ask for much, just 6-8 hours of sunlight daily to thrive and produce tasty fruit.
It’s pretty tolerant of various soils, but loves the well-draining, nutrient-rich kind. Standing about 12-18 inches tall, Patio Plum fits right in on balconies, patios, or windowsills.
A little trim now and then for airflow and yellow leaf removal keeps it happy. We can definitely agree that Patio Plum is a great choice for city garden dwellers and cozy country gardens.
Paisano
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Rapid |
Maintenance | Low |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Paisano stands out as a versatile determinate tomato variety, thriving across a range of growing conditions. With its compact stature, typically attaining a height of 2 to 3 feet, this tomato plant is tailor-made for petite gardens and container cultivation.
What sets Paisano apart is its speedy growth and early fruiting, a common trait among determinate tomatoes. This variety loves the sun, needing 6 to 8 hours of daily sunlight.
This low-maintenance tomato gem is perfect for gardeners wanting a reliable harvest in a shorter growing season.
Polbig
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Polbig is a popular determinate tomato variety known for its prolific fruiting and dependable performance. This plant won’t hog your garden space, maxing out at 3 to 4 feet tall.
That means you can grow it in beds or pots, no sweat! Like a sun-loving champ, it craves about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Polbig isn’t in a rush to grow, taking its time, but when it does, you’re in for clusters of round, red tomatoes that scream tomato perfection. Plus, it’s a speedy ripener thanks to its determinate nature.
Roma
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Roma tomatoes, known for their elongated shape and vibrant red color, are a popular type that’s loved for their amazing taste and versatility. These tomatoes are perfect for making sauces, pastes, and canning due to their meaty texture and fewer seeds.
For successful Roma tomato growth, sunlight is essential. They thrive when they get a solid 8 hours of direct sunlight daily, which they absolutely adore.
Their journey from transplant to maturity spans a moderate 70 to 80 days, striking a perfect balance in their development timeline, resulting in a beautiful display of fruits.
Skyway
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Steady |
Maintenance | Manageable |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Skyway is a notable determinate tomato variety appreciated for its compact growth habit and bountiful yields. With a focus on simplicity and productivity, it is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a manageable tomato plant.
Thriving in full sun, it needs 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and fruiting. It adapts to various soils, but prefers well-draining, enriched loamy soil.
Typically, it grows 2 to 3 feet tall, which is perfect for small gardens, patios, and containers. Its controlled growth ensures a manageable size.
Subarctic Plenty
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Minimal |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Reliable |
Subarctic Plenty shines as a top choice for cooler climates, tailor-made for gardeners dealing with shorter growing seasons. Its compact size, around 2 to 3 feet, fits well in small gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.
This tomato’s controlled growth delivers a concentrated yield of fruits. For optimal results, give it lots of sunlight and plant it in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that holds moisture.
Within 60 to 70 days after planting, you can expect ripe tomatoes. Subarctic Plenty is your go-to for reliable tomato harvests, even in chilly conditions.
Sunrise Sauce
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Sunrise Sauce stands out as an impressive tomato type known for its vibrant look and culinary versatility. Its golden-orange hue catches the eye, whether in gardens or on plates.
Thriving with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, this variety needs well-draining, organic-rich soil to grow strong. Compact at 2 to 3 feet, it suits small gardens and containers.
With a steady growth pace, you can count on a manageable harvest all season. The determinate nature means fruits ripen in a concentrated timeframe.
Tasmanian Chocolate
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Moderate ●●○○○ |
Growth Rate | Controlled |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Tasmanian Chocolate is a captivating determinate tomato variety renowned for its distinct appearance and delectable flavor. This compact plant thrives in full sunlight, needing 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily.
It does well in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with lots of organic material. Standing around 2 to 3 feet tall, Tasmanian Chocolate’s controlled growth suits smaller gardens and containers.
Its deep red, medium-sized fruits boast a sweet, smoky flavor, great for cooking. Regular watering maintains soil moisture, avoiding waterlogging.
Pruning aids airflow and fruiting. With its manageable size and delicious taste, Tasmanian Chocolate is ideal for gardeners, new and seasoned.
Tiny Tim
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Fast |
Maintenance | Low |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Tiny Tim presents itself as a captivating determinate tomato variety, thriving harmoniously in diverse garden environments. This petite plant shines brightest in tight spots, containers, and even on windowsills, capturing the hearts of city gardeners.
Standing at just 8 to 12 inches tall, Tiny Tim craves plenty of sunlight, around 6 to 8 hours daily. Its growth is speedy, revealing clusters of small, round, red cherry tomatoes bursting with irresistible flavor.
With its adaptability, delicious fruit, and charming appearance, Tiny Tim is a top pick for both beginner gardeners and those working with limited spaces.
Tumbler Hybrid
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Rapid |
Maintenance | Minimal |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Tumbler Hybrid is a notable determinate tomato variety that’s ideal for hanging baskets, containers, or small spaces. With its cascading growth style, this plant produces clusters of small, round tomatoes that ripen quickly.
It loves the sun, needing 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It also loves well-draining, nutrient-rich soil, so make sure water doesn’t stick around too long.
It’s great for hanging baskets or containers, easy and looks good. It’s pretty much ideal if you’ve got a small garden or just want some outdoor charm.
Washington Cherry
Factor | Information |
Ease of Growing | Easy ●○○○○ |
Growth Rate | Fast |
Maintenance | Regular |
Avg. Harvested Fruits | Abundant |
Washington Cherry stands out as a remarkable determinate tomato variety, celebrated for its vivid red, cherry-sized fruits bursting with a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
This small plant thrives in full sunlight, needing 6 to 8 hours of direct light every day. It does well in different soil types but prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
Growing to 2 to 3 feet tall, this tomato type grows quickly and sets fruit densely. With its determinate growth pattern, Washington Cherry suits small spaces and container gardening.