Most cherry tomatoes are of the indeterminate type
In tomato plants, the term "indeterminate" refers to the growth habit of the plant. Indeterminate tomato varieties continue growing and producing fruit until the plant dies from cold temperatures or disease. In contrast, "determinate" tomato varieties grow to a certain size and then stop producing fruit. Does this Spark an idea?
Benefits
Indeterminate tomato plants last all summer, making for a continual harvest. Most of the tomatoes prized for taste are of the indeterminate type. There is also a much greater selection of indeterminate tomatoes than other types, allowing for a greater range of choices when it comes to color, size, shape, taste and maturation time.
Disadvantages
Indeterminate tomato plants can become very large after growing all season. Small gardens may not have enough room for such big plants. They may also need to be either staked or caged to hold the vines and fruit off the ground, making for more work.
Varieties
Many of the most well-known, popular, and tasty tomatoes are of the indeterminate type. Early Girl, Sweet 100, Better Boy and Yellow Pear are all indeterminate varieties that enjoy widespread cultivation. Favorite heirloom varieties like Brandywine, Cherokee Purple, Amana Orange and San Marzano are also indeterminate.
Considerations
Large indeterminate varieties may not be suitable in gardens of limited size, or in container gardens. The continual growth of the plant means that fruit of all stages of development will be present, requiring repeated harvests through the season
Alternatives
Determinate types of tomatoes take up much less space, and can be grown successfully in containers. The fruits of determinate tomato plants mature at the same time, which is an advantage if the tomatoes are being grown for a single-harvest use, such as paste making or canning.
Tags: tomato plants, Indeterminate tomato, indeterminate type, determinate tomato, Indeterminate tomato plants, indeterminate varieties, producing fruit
