Easy to Grow Tomatoes
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If you're thinking about growing your own tomatoes, you'll be happy to know that some tomato varieties are incredibly easy to manage, even for beginners.
Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of trial and error, and I’ve learned a lot about which tomato plants thrive with minimal effort.
Whether you're working with a small raised bed or looking to grow tomatoes in pots, I've got some great gardening tips to help you find success.
Let’s take a look at five of the easiest tomatoes to grow and why they deserve a spot in your garden.
For more tomato growing tips, check out my guides:
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1. Cherry Tomatoes:
The reliable garden starter.
Cherry tomatoes have been a staple in my garden for years, and I can't recommend them enough—especially if you're new to growing tomatoes.
They're not just easy to cultivate; they also offer a delightful taste that's hard to beat.
Why I Love Growing Cherry Tomatoes:
Prolific Producers:
In my experience, cherry tomato plants produce fruit abundantly throughout the entire growing season.
Once they start, it's like they never stop!
This means you'll have a steady supply of tomatoes for months.
Sweet and Versatile:
The small, sweet fruits are perfect for snacking, salads, and cooking.
I've often found myself eating them straight off the plant while working in the garden.
Adaptable to Various Spaces:
Whether you have a large garden, a raised bed, or just a balcony, cherry tomatoes can fit right in.
I've successfully grown them in containers, which makes them ideal for those with limited space.
For more tips on growing in containers, check out my guide: Grow Tomatoes Anywhere with Grow Bags.
Favorite cherry tomato Varieties:
'Sun Gold':
This is one of my top picks.
'Sun Gold' cherry tomatoes are known for their bright orange color and exceptionally sweet flavor.
Plus, they have excellent disease resistance, which means less hassle for you.
Here are the seeds I recommend:
'Sweet 100':
Another variety I've enjoyed is 'Sweet 100.'
As the name suggests, these plants produce an impressive number of small, red tomatoes that are both sweet and juicy.
Here are the seeds I recommend:
Top Tips:
Planting:
I usually start my cherry tomato seeds indoors a few weeks before the last expected frost.
To learn more about how to do this, check out my guide: When to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors.
Once the seedlings are sturdy enough and the weather warms up, I transplant them outside.
Sunlight:
Cherry tomatoes thrive in full sun.
I've noticed that the more sunlight they get, the better they perform.
Aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Soil:
Good quality soil is key.
I mix compost into the soil before planting to ensure the plants have plenty of nutrients.
If you're using containers, a high-quality potting mix works wonders.
Watering:
Consistent watering is important.
I try to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Over the years, I've found that watering in the morning helps prevent diseases.
Support:
Even though cherry tomato plants are smaller, they can become quite bushy and heavy with fruit.
I use tomato cages or stakes to support the plants and keep them upright.
Here are the tomato cages I recommend:
Container Gardening with Cherry Tomatoes:
I've had great success growing cherry tomatoes in containers.
Here's what I've learned:
Container Size:
Use a pot that's at least 12 inches deep to accommodate the roots.
Drainage:
Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
Location:
Place the container in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight.
Watering:
Containers can dry out quickly, so check the soil moisture regularly.
During hot days, I sometimes need to water twice a day.
For more watering tips, check out my guide: How to Use Watering Globes.
For more tomato growing tips, check out my guides:
The Art of Harvesting Tomatoes: When and How to Pick the Perfect Fruit
2. Roma Tomatoes:
Great for sauces and low maintenance.
Roma tomatoes have become a favorite, especially when I'm looking for an easy-to-grow tomato variety that's perfect for cooking.
These plum-shaped tomatoes are not only versatile in the kitchen but also really straightforward to cultivate.
Why Roma Tomatoes are Ideal for small gardens:
Low Maintenance:
Roma tomato plants are determinate types, which means they grow to a certain height and then stop, focusing their energy on producing fruit.
This growth habit makes them more manageable and less sprawling than indeterminate varieties.
Disease Resistance:
One of the reasons I keep planting Roma tomatoes is their natural resistance to common tomato diseases like verticillium and fusarium wilt.
This resilience reduces the need for constant monitoring and makes them one of the easiest tomatoes to grow.
Compact Size:
Their bushy growth makes them suitable for smaller spaces.
They don't require as much staking or support as taller varieties, which simplifies things.
Here are the roma tomato seeds I recommend:
Growing Tips:
Starting from Seeds:
I've found that starting Roma tomatoes from seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date gives them a strong start.
Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, they're ready to transition outdoors.
Soil Preparation:
Roma tomatoes thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
Before planting, I mix in compost or well-rotted manure to boost soil fertility.
Good soil sets the foundation for a healthy growing season.
Sunlight Requirements:
Like most tomatoes, Romas need plenty of sunlight—at least 6 to 8 hours a day.
I make sure to plant them in the sunniest spot in my garden to maximize their growth and fruit production.
Watering Practices:
Consistent watering is key.
I aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Spacing:
Even though they're compact, I space my Roma plants about 18 to 24 inches apart.
This ensures good air circulation, which helps prevent diseases.
Minimal Pruning:
Unlike indeterminate varieties that require regular pruning to remove suckers, Roma tomatoes need less maintenance in this area.
I only remove any dead or diseased foliage to keep the plant healthy.
Why Romas are Great for Beginners:
Forgiving Nature:
Their disease resistance and low maintenance needs make Roma tomatoes forgiving for those who might be new to gardening.
Versatility:
Whether you have a large garden plot or are limited to containers, Romas adapt well.
I've seen them thrive in various conditions, making them an excellent choice for different gardening setups.
Growing Roma Tomatoes in Containers:
Container Size:
Use a pot that's at least 18 inches deep to accommodate the root system.
Drainage:
Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Soil Mix:
A high-quality potting mix enriched with compost provides the nutrients Roma tomatoes need.
Here is the potting mix I recommend:
For more tomato tips, check out my guides:
3. Beefsteak Tomatoes:
A big payoff for beginners.
If you're aiming for those classic, large, and juicy tomatoes, Beefsteak varieties are the way to go.
I remember the first time I planted Beefsteak tomatoes—I was amazed at how these tomato plants rewarded my efforts with such hefty fruits.
Despite their impressive size, they're surprisingly accessible for beginners and can be one of the easiest tomato plants to grow with the right approach.
Why Beefsteak Tomatoes are Great for Beginners:
Impressive Fruit Size:
Beefsteak tomatoes are known for producing some of the largest fruits among tomato varieties.
There's nothing quite like harvesting a massive, ripe tomato from your own garden.
Rich Flavor:
They offer that classic tomato taste—perfect for sandwiches and salads.
The flavor is robust, making all the care you put into growing them worthwhile.
High Yield Potential:
With proper care, these plants can produce a generous harvest.
Even a single plant can provide plenty of tomatoes throughout the growing season.
Here are the beefsteak tomato seeds I recommend:
Growing Tips:
Starting Seeds Indoors:
Beefsteak tomatoes have a longer growing season, so I usually start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
This gives them a head start and ensures they have enough time to produce fruit.
Planting Location:
Beefsteaks need plenty of space and sunlight.
I plant them in a spot that gets at least 6 to 8 hours of sun per day and space them about 24 to 36 inches apart in the garden or raised bed.
Support Structures:
Due to their size, Beefsteak tomato plants require sturdy support.
I use strong stakes or tomato cages to keep the plants upright as they grow taller and the fruits get heavier.
Watering and Mulching:
Consistent watering is key.
I water deeply to encourage strong root development and mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Here is the mulch I recommend:
Growing in Containers:
Container Size:
If you're short on garden space, Beefsteak tomatoes can be grown in large containers—at least 18 inches deep and wide.
Soil Choice:
Use a high-quality potting mix rich in nutrients. I often add some compost to give the plants an extra boost.
Support in Pots:
Even in containers, these plants will need support.
Secure a stake or cage in the pot at the time of planting.
Harvesting Tips:
Patience Pays Off:
Beefsteak tomatoes take a bit longer to mature—usually around 80 days from transplanting.
It's a bit of a wait, but seeing those big tomatoes ripen is incredibly satisfying.
When to Harvest:
I pick them when they're fully colored and slightly soft to the touch.
Leaving them on the vine until they're fully ripe ensures the best flavor.
Handling Carefully:
Due to their size, handle them gently to avoid bruising.
For more growing tips, check out my guide:
4. Early Girl Tomatoes:
Perfect for quick results.
If you're as impatient as I am when it comes to harvesting your own tomatoes, Early Girl tomatoes are a fantastic choice.
They're one of my go-to tomato varieties when I want to enjoy fresh tomatoes early in the growing season.
Why Early Girl Tomatoes are Ideal for Quick Harvests:
Short Growing Season:
Early Girl tomatoes are famous for their rapid maturation.
They typically produce fruit in just about 50 to 60 days after transplanting, which is significantly faster than many other tomato varieties.
This means you can start enjoying your tomatoes sooner.
Consistent Producers:
Despite their quick growth, they don't skimp on yield.
I've found that Early Girl plants continue to produce fruit throughout the season, giving you an extended harvest period.
Compact Size:
These tomato plants are relatively compact, making them suitable for both raised beds and containers.
If space is limited in your garden, Early Girls are a great option.
Here are the Early Girl tomato seeds I recommend:
Growing Tips from My Experience:
Starting Seeds Indoors:
To get a jumpstart on the season, I usually start my Early Girl seeds indoors about 6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
This gives the plants a head start, ensuring they begin producing fruit as early as possible.
Transplanting:
Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall and the danger of frost has passed, I transplant them into the garden.
They prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, so I mix in some compost to enrich the planting area.
Sunlight Requirements:
Like most tomatoes, Early Girls need plenty of sunlight—at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day.
I plant them in the sunniest spot in my garden to maximize their growth.
Support Structures:
Early Girl tomato plants can grow quite tall, often reaching up to 6 feet.
I use stakes or tomato cages to support the plants, preventing them from falling over as they grow and produce fruit.
Growing in Containers:
Container Gardening:
If you don't have garden space, Early Girl tomatoes grow well in large containers.
Use a pot that's at least 18 inches in diameter with good drainage holes.
Soil Mix:
A high-quality potting mix enriched with compost provides the nutrients the plants need.
I also add a slow-release fertilizer to support their growth.
Here is the slow-release fertilizer I recommend:
5. Grape Tomatoes:
Small and sweet with big results.
Grape tomatoes have become a staple in my garden, and for good reason.
These little gems pack a punch when it comes to flavor and ease of growth.
If you're searching for a tomato variety that's both easy to manage and generous in its yield, grape tomatoes might just be the perfect fit.
Why Grape Tomatoes are a Great Choice:
Compact and Prolific:
Grape tomato plants are typically compact, making them ideal for small gardens, raised beds, or even containers.
Despite their smaller size, they produce a surprisingly large amount of fruit throughout the growing season.
I've found that even a single plant can keep you well-supplied with tomatoes.
Sweet Flavor:
These tomatoes are known for their sweet taste and firm texture.
They're perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or tossing into pasta dishes.
I often find myself eating them straight off the plant.
Disease Resistance:
Many grape tomato varieties boast excellent disease resistance.
This means less time worrying about common tomato plant issues.
My Favorite Grape Tomato Varieties:
'Juliet':
This is one of my top picks.
The 'Juliet' grape tomato produces small, elongated fruits with a wonderful balance of sweetness and acidity.
The plants are vigorous and highly productive.
I've had great success growing 'Juliet' in both garden beds and containers.
Here are the ‘Juliet’ seeds I recommend:
'Red Grape':
Another variety I've enjoyed is the 'Red Grape' tomato.
It offers bright red fruits that are slightly smaller than 'Juliet' but equally flavorful.
The plants are robust and tend to have a long growing season.
Here are the seeds I recommend:
Growing Tips:
Starting Seeds or Seedlings:
You can start grape tomatoes from seeds indoors about 6-8 days before the last expected frost, or purchase seedlings from a local nursery.
I've done both, and each method works well.
Planting Location:
Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight—at least 6 to 8 hours per day.
Grape tomatoes thrive in sunny conditions, which helps them produce more fruit.
Soil Preparation:
Use nutrient-rich soil with good drainage.
I like to mix compost into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients.
If you're using containers, a high-quality potting mix works wonders.
Watering:
Consistent watering is key.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
I've found that watering at the base of the plant helps prevent fungal diseases.
Supporting the Plants:
Even though grape tomato plants are smaller, they can become quite bushy and heavy with fruit.
I use small tomato cages or stakes to support them, which keeps the plants upright and makes harvesting easier.
Growing in Containers:
One of the best things about grape tomatoes is how well they adapt to container gardening.
If you're limited on space or don't have a traditional garden, you can still enjoy growing your own tomatoes.
Container Size:
Use a pot that's at least 12 inches deep and wide to accommodate the root system.
Drainage:
Ensure your container has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
Soil Mix:
Fill the container with a quality potting mix enriched with compost.
This provides the nutrients your grape tomato plant needs to thrive.
Placement:
Position the container in a spot that receives full sun.
Watering:
Containers can dry out faster than garden beds, so check the soil moisture regularly.
During hot days, you might need to water daily.
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FAQs
What is the easiest tomato variety to grow for beginners?
Cherry tomatoes, particularly 'Sun Gold,' are some of the easiest to grow, especially in containers.
They are prolific producers, easy to care for, and offer excellent disease resistance.
Can I grow tomatoes in pots?
Yes, many types of tomatoes grow well in pots, including cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, and even smaller determinate varieties like Roma.
Just make sure the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Do tomato plants need full sun?
Yes, tomatoes require full sun—at least 6 to 8 hours a day—to produce a healthy crop.
What’s the best tomato plant for a small garden?
For small spaces, cherry or grape tomatoes are excellent options.
They don’t take up much room, and their compact growth habits make them ideal for smaller gardens or pots.
How long does it take to grow tomatoes from seeds?
Depending on the variety, it can take anywhere from 60 to 85 days to grow tomatoes from seeds to fruit-bearing plants.
Fast-growing varieties like 'Early Girl' are great if you’re looking for quicker results.
Wrap-Up
Growing tomatoes has been one of the most rewarding parts of my gardening journey.
Whether you choose the sweet simplicity of cherry tomatoes, the versatile Roma, the hefty Beefsteak, the speedy Early Girl, or the delightful grape tomatoes, each offers its own unique benefits and flavors.
With just a bit of care—good soil, plenty of sunshine, and consistent watering—you can enjoy a bountiful harvest right from your own garden or even a container on your patio.
So grab some seeds or seedlings and give it a go.
You might be surprised at how easy it is to grow your own tomatoes and how much joy it brings to your days.
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