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gwtamara

What is the difference between determinate and indeterminate tomatoes

gwtamara
11 years ago

Determinate varieties of tomatoes, also called "bush" tomatoes, are varieties that are bred to grow to a compact
height (approx. 4 feet).

They stop growing when fruit sets on the terminal or top bud, ripen all their crop at or near the same time (usually
over a 2 week period), and then die.

They may require a limited amount of caging and/or staking for support, should NOT be pruned or "suckered" as
it severely reduces the crop, and will perform relatively well in a container (minimum size of 5-6 gallon). Examples
are: Rutgers, Roma, Celebrity (called a semi-determinate by some), and Marglobe.

Indeterminate varieties of tomatoes are also called "vining" tomatoes. They will grow and produce fruit until killed
by frost and can reach heights of up to 10 feet although 6 feet is considered the norm. They will bloom, set new
fruit and ripen fruit all at the same time throughout the growing season.

They require substantial caging and/or staking for support and pruning and the removal of suckers is practiced by
many but is not mandatory. The need for it and advisability of doing it varies from region to region. Experiment and
see which works best for you. Because of the need for substantial support and the size of the plants, indeterminate
varieties are not usually recommended as container plants. Examples are: Big Boy, Beef Master, most "cherry"
types, Early Girl, most heirloom varieties, etc.

Get tips and advice about growing tomatoes on our Tomatoes forum. {{gwi:2110421}}

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