By Mindy McIntosh-Shetter

Variety is the spice of life is a saying that not only applies to life but also the tomato garden.

Planning for this variety takes a little time, seed catalogs, and a little understanding about tomatoes.

Understanding the different types of tomatoes and how they can be used to create a full-season of tomatoes is the key. Growth habit of tomatoes can be a friend or a foe to any gardener.

Midget, patio or dwarf tomatoes are compact plants that grow in container or hanging baskets. They typically only produce for a short time and once that production is complete they are done for the season.

Determinate tomatoes go to a certain height, produce all their fruit early and in a short amount of time.

Once the fruit has been produced the plant is finished as far as fruit production. Then there is Read the rest of this entry »

By Michelle Fabio

You may have heard these terms thrown around at your local seed store, in catalogs, or even at tomato exhibitions—but what do they mean?

Indeterminate tomatoes are the traditional, large, homegrown variety, and will grow and produce fruit until the first frost.

They can grow up to 12 feet tall, although the average is around 6 feet, and they will bloom and bear fruit throughout the season.

These tomatoes are typically called “vining,” and they require substantial staking or caging as well as regular pruning.

Read the rest of this entry »