Here's what's NEW in 2026
The 2026 Great Tomato Plant Sale Is Bursting with Flavor!
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The countdown has begun for the 2026 Great Tomato Plant Sale (GTPS) in Contra Costa County—and we’re especially excited about this year’s selection.
Yes, your beloved, tried-and-true favorites are returning. But we’re also introducing several new varieties that we think you’ll really enjoy — colorful, flavorful, and well-suited for everything from backyard plots to raised beds and sunny patio containers.
This article is just a small preview of what’s in store.
But we are also providing you the links so that you can browse the full collection of tomatoes, peppers and other veggies we’re offering this year—each variety accompanied by beautiful photos to help you choose your next garden favorite with confidence. You might just find a new variety that earns a permanent spot in your garden.
Cherry & Paste Tomatoes
Small Fruits. Huge Flavor. Endless Possibilities.
There’s nothing quite like picking a sun-warmed cherry tomato right off the vine—or turning a good, meaty paste tomato into a pot of homemade sauce. This year’s new varieties include some early producers, a few compact plants that fit nicely into smaller spaces, and plenty of great flavor to look forward to.
New Cherry Tomatoes for 2026
- 42 Day
- Chocolate Pear
- Mary's Cherry (Dwarf)
New Paste Tomato for 2026
- Blue Beech
From quick-to-mature varieties that get you harvesting sooner to compact dwarf plants that tuck neatly into smaller gardens, these tomatoes show that you don’t need a lot of space to enjoy a generous harvest.
Follow the link to explore ALL Cherry and Paste varieties available this year—you'll want to see the full lineup!
Beefsteak & Slicer Tomatoes
Bold. Juicy. Show-Stopping.
Dreaming of thick slices for sandwiches? Vibrant heirloom colors for a caprese platter? Dependable performers that combine beauty and productivity?
These varieties, new to our sale this year, deliver all that and so much more.
New Beefsteak for 2026
- Jolene
New Slicers for 2026
- Beauty King (Dwarf)
- Enroza
- Estiva
- Jetsetter
- Mountain Sunrise
- Wild Fred (Dwarf)
Several of these newcomers are compact dwarf varieties, which are ideal for patios, smaller spaces, and gardeners who want manageable plants without sacrificing flavor.
In this inspiring article on Introducing New Dwarf Tomatoes 2026, UC Master Gardener Janet Miller shares the backstory of a worldwide initiative to develop compact, easy-to-maintain tomato plants that never compromise on taste. You’ll also get the inside story on the four brand-new dwarf introductions for 2026.
And for great advice on which tomatoes are right for YOUR garden, read "Choose the Right Tomato"
Explore the entire Beefsteak and Slicer Collection with detailed descriptions and beautiful photos.
Peppers
Sweet. Sassy. Seriously Irresistible.
Pepper lovers, this is your year! From sweet and fruity to bold and fiery, the 2026 pepper lineup adds color, crunch, and personality to every meal.
New Sweet Peppers for 2026
- Paradicsom
- Pimiento Elite
- Corno di Toro Rosso
- Escamillo
New Hot Peppers for 2026
- Habanada
- Super Thai
- Jalapeño Pantera
Whether you crave gentle sweetness, smoky depth, or eye-watering heat, this year’s selection offers something to thrill every palate.
Browse the entire Pepper Collection with detailed descriptions and beautiful photos.
GTPS 2026 Is a Year You Won’t Want to Miss
From compact dwarf tomatoes perfect for small gardens to vibrant peppers that light up your plate, plus a wide array of other summer veggies—think eggplant, cucumbers, squash, and much more—this year’s Great Tomato Plant Sale is shaping up to be one of our most exciting yet.
And remember, this article is just a small glimpse of what’s in store for 2026. Take some time to browse the full collection and see everything we’re growing this year. You might find a new favorite (or two!) as you begin planning a garden filled with color, flavor, and plenty to harvest.
Please check out our summer gardening articles for more tips!
- Introducing New Dwarf Tomatoes
- Growing Tomatoes in Containers
- Choose the Right Tomato
- Decoding Tomato Disease Resistance
- Protecting Tomatoes during Hot Summer Days
- Helpful Vegetable Growing Tips & Techniques:
We can’t wait to grow with you in 2026!
Return to The 2026 Great Tomato Plant Sale Intro Page