Did you know there are over 10,000 tomato varieties? Finding the perfect variety of tomatoes to grow in a greenhouse can be challenging. Finding a suitable variety for your growing environment will increase yields, increase quality, reduce pests, and lengthen your growing season.
All tomato varieties fit into three types: indeterminate, determinate, and semi-determinate.
Indeterminate
Indeterminate tomato plants grow continuously, flower, and produce fruit until killed by frost or other conditions. Indeterminate tomato plants are known for their continuous growth and can grow tall if not pruned or supported. While you can get multiple harvests from one plant, their size may not be suitable for greenhouse growing.
Determinate
A determinate tomato plant is genetically programmed to grow to a certain height and to set fruit within a relatively short period. Determinate tomato plants are more like a bush and compact. They are more suitable for environments with limited space or gardeners looking for a concentrated harvest. They also require less pruning than the indeterminate plants.
Semi-Determinate
A semi-determinate hybrid carries characteristics of both the indeterminate tomato and the determinate. Semi-determinate tomato plants grow to moderate size and may produce fruit over an extended period. They may need some pruning, but less than the indeterminate tomatoes. Semi-determinate are the most versatile and suitable for various growing environments, such as greenhouses and outdoor cultivation. They are an attractive option for a wide range of growing conditions.
Understanding the types of tomato plants will help you select the best tomatoes to grow in your greenhouse. You may also want to find seeds resistant to common tomato diseases. Look for seed packets that contain letters like VNFT that indicate a variety’s disease resistance.
Our Recommendations for the Best Tomatoes to Grow in a Greenhouse
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet 100, Sun Gold, and Black Cherry are popular choices for greenhouse cultivation. They produce small, flavorful tomatoes that are perfect for snacking and salads.
Cocktail Tomatoes: Varieties like Mountain Magic and Mountain Merit are known for their disease resistance and excellent flavor. They are well-suited for greenhouse growing and produce medium-sized fruits.
Beefsteak Tomatoes: For larger tomatoes, consider varieties such as Big Beef, Brandywine, or Beefmaster. These robust plants can thrive in a greenhouse environment and yield hefty, flavorful fruits.
Determinate Varieties: Consider compact, determinate tomato varieties such as Celebrity or Roma. These plants are well-suited for greenhouse growing due to their bushy nature and controlled growth, making them easier to manage within the confined space of a greenhouse.