Choosing the Right Tomato Variety

Cherry, Roma, grape, beefsteak and colourful heirloom tomato varieties displayed in a backyard garden

Compact determinate tomato plant with ripe red and developing tomatoes supported by a cage in a raised garden bed — A compact determinate tomato plant producing a concentrated crop in a raised garden bed.

Tall indeterminate tomato plant with ripening fruit and flowers trained vertically on a timber trellis — An indeterminate tomato plant producing fruit at several heights on a sturdy trellis.

Before choosing tomato plants, consider how much growing space you have and how you plan to use your harvest. Some varieties suit compact gardens and containers, while others need more room, stronger supports and regular pruning.

Popular tomato types include:

Cherry tomatoes: Small, sweet and highly productive. They are ideal for salads, lunchboxes, grazing platters and backyard snacking. Many varieties grow well in pots or garden beds.
Roma tomatoes: Firm, oval-shaped tomatoes with fewer seeds and dense flesh. They are commonly used for sauces, soups, cooking, bottling and preserving.
Beefsteak tomatoes: Large, juicy tomatoes with flavour. Their broad slices are well suited to sandwiches, burgers and fresh salads.
Grape tomatoes: Small, oval tomatoes with firm flesh and a naturally sweet flavour. They store well and are convenient for salads, snacks and roasting.
Heirloom tomatoes: Traditional varieties valued for their distinctive colours, shapes, textures and flavours. They can add visual interest and diversity to your harvest.

It is also helpful to understand whether a tomato variety is determinate or indeterminate.

Determinate tomatoes grow into compact, bushy plants and usually produce most of their crop within a shorter period. They are often suitable for small gardens, large containers and gardeners who want tomatoes ready for preserving together. Although compact, some plants may still need support when carrying heavy fruit.

Indeterminate tomatoes continue growing, flowering and producing fruit throughout the season. These vigorous plants can become tall and require sturdy stakes, cages, frames or trellises. Regular tying and careful pruning can improve airflow and keep growth manageable.

Always check the plant label before purchasing. It should explain the plant’s expected size, growing habit, support needs and typical use. Choosing varieties suited to your garden will make care easier and help you enjoy a varied tomato harvest.