25 named cultivars

fruit vegetable

Tomato

Solanum lycopersicum

The Story

Plant Bio

Tomato plants are known for their edible fruit and are a staple in home gardens.

Varieties are available in many colors and fruit sizes, and the plant typically produces abundantly.

Uses & Benefits:

While primarily grown for food, tomato plants add lush greenery and vibrant red fruits to vegetable gardens.

Provides fresh, homegrown tomatoes for salads, sauces, and snacks, reducing store-bought costs.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies when flowering.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fruit Vegetable

Height

72 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Leaves, stems, and unripe fruit are toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining soil and plant in full sun.
Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep and water gently to keep moist.
Thin seedlings to the strongest plant after emergence, about 2 weeks.
Stake or cage plants early to support growth and prevent disease.
Water consistently, aiming for 1-2 inches weekly, avoiding wet foliage.
Fertilize with a balanced tomato fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for an earlier harvest.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent watering to prevent blossom end rot 🌱
Stake or cage plants to support fruit load
Apply fertilizer regularly for healthy growth
Mulch around plants to retain moisture

Don't

Avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal diseases ❌
Don’t let plants dry out completely
Never forget to rotate crops annually
Avoid over-fertilizing which can lead to lush foliage but few fruits

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Plant
Prune
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant vegetable borderEdible garden centerpieceColorful container display

Companion Plants

Basil Marigold Garlic Chives Carrots

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tomato questions

What zones can Tomato grow in?

Tomato is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tomato deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Tomato, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Tomato bloom?

Tomato typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tomato need full sun?

Tomato does best in full sun (6+ hours).