Tomatoes are warm weather plants in the Solanaceae family, along with peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. Most tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning that the vines will keep growing to 6 feet or more. Some tomatoes are determinate, meaning they will stop growing at a short height, possibly 3 to 4 feet tall.
Cultural tips for growing tomatoes, UC IPM
Planting
- Transplant 24 inches apart in May to June, possibly April, depending on weather and local conditions.
- For best results, wait until daytime temperatures are regularly over 70°F.
- If growing your own seedlings, start the seeds 6 weeks before you want to plant.
- Cage or stake plants to support expected growth. Indeterminate varieties can grow 6 feet tall or more.
- Water regularly but not excessively.
- Overfertilization may result in excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Harvesting
- Harvest tomatoes when fully colored and beginning to soften.
- In July to October, depending on the variety.
Pest management
Tomato pests and disorders, UC IPM
More links
- Video: Planting Tall Tomato Seedlings [5:26]
- Video: Blossom End Rot in Tomatoes [1:28]
- Video: Growing Tomatoes and Peppers Successfully[1:29:28]
- Video: Seed Saving at the 2025 Tomato Trial [2:15]
- Video: Tomato Trial Open House 2025 [1:08]
- Video: Tomato Troubles! Common Tomato Problems in the Home Garden [55 min]
- Growing Great Tomatoes
- High-Density Tomato Growing
- Tomato Tips
Recommended varieties for Santa Clara County*
Classic: Black from Tula, Carmello, Dona, Early Girl, Gold Medal, Lime Green, Orange Strawberry, Santa Clara Canner, Stupice
Beefsteak: Aunt Ginny’s Purple, Aunt Ruby’s Green, Big Rainbow, Brandywine from Croatia, Cuostralee, Ed’s Millennium, Ernie’s Plump, Ernie’s Round, Green Giant, Hillbilly, Russian 117, Stump of the World
Cherry: Black Cherry, Chadwick, Galinas, Sungold, Sugary, Sun Sugar, Sweet 100, Sweet Chelsea
Paste: Amish Gold, Amish Paste, Jersey Devil, Opalka, Principe Borghese
Also, see our list of Spring Garden Fair Tomato varieties.
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.