10 Best Determinate Tomatoes For Containers (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're thinking about growing tomatoes in containers, you'll want to make sure you choose the right type of tomato plant. Determinate tomatoes are a great choice for container gardening because they grow to a specific size and produce their fruit all at once, making them perfect for small spaces. Here are five key points to consider when looking for determinate tomatoes for containers:

1. Size: Look for tomato plants that are specifically bred for container gardening. These plants are typically smaller than traditional tomato plants and won't take up as much space on your balcony or patio.

2. Yield: Choose a variety that produces a high yield of fruit. You want to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck, especially since container gardening can be more expensive than traditional gardening.

3. Disease resistance: Make sure the tomato plant you choose is resistant to common tomato diseases such as blight and wilt. This will help ensure a healthy harvest.

4. Sunlight requirements: Check the sunlight requirements for the tomato plant you choose. Most tomato plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, so make sure your container is placed in a sunny spot.

5. Soil and fertilization: Use high-quality soil and fertilize regularly to ensure your tomato plant has all the nutrients it needs to grow healthy and strong.

By considering these five key points when selecting determinate tomatoes for containers, you'll be well on your way to a successful harvest of delicious, juicy tomatoes.

10 Best Determinate Tomatoes For Containers

1. Dwarf Red Robin Tomato Seeds – Heirloom, Sweet & Low Acid

This product is a pack of 30+ Dwarf Red Robin tomato seeds, which are an heirloom non-GMO variety of Lycopersicon lycopersicum. These seeds are highly productive and delicious, with a sweet, low acid taste that is sure to please any tomato lover. The plants are determinate, meaning they will produce a set amount of fruit before stopping growth, making them perfect for container gardening.

These tomato seeds are easy to grow and can be cultivated year-round in containers. However, it is important to keep the soil moist but not overly wet, as over-watering can lead to fungal growth and seed rot. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 70-75F and the planting depth should be 1/4". It is recommended to sprout the seeds in small containers, preferably 4" or smaller, rather than in-ground germination.

To ensure successful growth, it is recommended to start the seeds in containers approximately 8 weeks prior to the planned set-out date. The plants should be transplanted to the garden 1-2 weeks after the expected date of last frost. It is important to keep the soil consistently warm, between 70-85F, as cool soils below about 60-65F can significantly delay or inhibit germination. On the other hand, excessively warm soils, well above 90F, can also inhibit germination and provide ideal conditions for seed rot.

Once the seedlings emerge from the soil, they should be provided with some light source. Multiple seeds can be planted in a single starter container, but should be thinned once seedlings appear so only a single plant remains. It is important to note that seeds do not require light for germination, but some light source should be provided for seedlings once they emerge from the soil.

Overall, these Dwarf Red Robin tomato seeds are a fantastic addition to any garden or container. They are easy to grow and highly productive, with a delicious taste that is sure to impress. With proper care and attention, these seeds have the potential to yield a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy tomatoes.

2. Italian Roma Tomato Seeds – Heirloom, Non-Gmo, Determinate, Open-Pollinated, Old-Fashioned Taste – 30+ Seeds

The Italian Roma Tomato Seeds are a perfect choice for those looking for a tasty, smooth, and sweet addition to their garden. These seeds are heirloom NON-GMO, determinate, open-pollinated, and offer an old-fashioned taste that is sure to please. With a germination period of 70 days and a plant height of 30-36 inches, these seeds are easy to grow and maintain.

It is important to keep the soil moist and not let the seeds dry out between watering. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 70-75F, and planting depth should be approximately 1/4". It is recommended to sprout tomato seeds in small containers, preferably 4" or smaller, as in-ground germination is not recommended. A well-drained standard potting mix is also recommended for optimal growth.

For best results, start seeds in containers approximately 8 weeks prior to the planned set-out date. The plants should ultimately be transplanted to the garden 1-2 weeks after the expected date of last frost. Soil should be kept consistently warm, from 70-85F, as cool soils, below about 60-65F, even just at night, will significantly delay or inhibit germination. Additionally, overly warm soils, well above 90F, can inhibit germination and provide ideal conditions for seed rot.

It is important to avoid over-watering as it can cause fungal growth, which leads to seed rot. Excess water can also bury seeds deep in the soil where they will not be able to break the surface. Water when the soil surface just begins to dry.

Multiple seeds can be planted in a single starter container, but should be thinned once seedlings appear so that only a single plant remains. While seeds do not require light for germination, some light source should be provided for seedlings once they emerge from the soil.

Overall, the Italian Roma Tomato Seeds offer a delicious and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With proper care and attention, these seeds will yield a bountiful harvest of smooth, sweet, and tasty tomatoes.

3. Silvery Fir Tree Tomato – 50 Seeds – Determinate Open-Pollinated Variety, Usa-Grown, Non-Gmo Vegetable Seeds For Outdoor Or Home Gardening, Thresh Seed Co.

The Silvery Fir Tree Heirloom Tomato is a unique, open-pollinated variety that produces deeply cut foliage and nearly perfect, 2-3" red tomatoes. This Russian variety is known for its compact size, reaching just two feet tall, and is therefore perfect for container gardening.

This determinate tomato variety is usually the earliest producer of all of our tomato varieties, making it a popular choice for home gardeners and commercial growers alike. The Silvery Fir Tree Heirloom Tomato is also GMO-free and chemical-free, ensuring that you are growing a healthy and sustainable crop.

The USA-grown seeds are regularly tested to ensure at least 85% germination, ensuring that you have the best chance of success when planting these seeds. The durable, mylar-lined packaging protects the seeds from light and moisture, extending the survival of the seeds by years. This makes it a great choice for preparedness seed vaults, as the resealable zipper tops make for convenient storage and planting.

Overall, the Silvery Fir Tree Heirloom Tomato is a great choice for anyone looking to grow a unique and flavorful tomato variety in their home garden or container garden. With its compact size, early production, and GMO-free, chemical-free seeds, you can feel good about growing this sustainable crop.

4. Cemeha Seeds – Indoor Red Dwarf Tomato Determinate Non Gmo Vegetable For Planting

CEMEHA SEEDS offers high-quality indoor red dwarf tomato seeds for planting, providing gardeners with a reliable source of fresh produce. Each package contains approximately 40 seeds, and the company guarantees that the number of seeds will match the indicated amount. The packaging includes English instructions for planting and growing, ensuring a successful harvest.

These non-GMO seeds are selected by weight and size to ensure that they meet the highest standards of quality. The uniform growth of the plants ensures effective weed suppression, allowing the plants to make full use of the nutritional elements in the plant area. This also leads to a more efficient growing process and a higher yield, with selected seeds increasing yields by 20-30%.

With CEMEHA SEEDS, gardeners can enjoy an easier growing process and an increased harvest. The company is committed to customer satisfaction and guarantees that if the order is defective, the packaging is damaged, or the customer is not satisfied with the product, they can contact the company at any time to resolve the issue.

In summary, CEMEHA SEEDS offers a reliable and high-quality source of indoor red dwarf tomato seeds for planting, with the added benefits of weed suppression and increased yield. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that gardeners can enjoy a successful and satisfying growing experience.

5. Burpee 'bushsteak' Hybrid | Red Beefsteak Slicing Tomato | 40 Seeds

The Burpee 'BushSteak' Hybrid is an exclusive, high-quality tomato variety that is perfect for container gardening. With a fruit weight of 8-12 oz, this red beefsteak slicing tomato is sure to impress any tomato enthusiast. It is a determinate variety, which means that it will produce a finite number of fruits and will not continue to grow throughout the season.

Each packet of Burpee 'BushSteak' Hybrid contains 40 seeds, providing ample opportunity for gardeners to grow and enjoy this delicious tomato variety. The seeds can be sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the average last frost date using a Burpee seed starting kit. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted to the garden 4 weeks after the average last frost date. The Burpee 'BushSteak' Hybrid has a short maturity period of 65 days, making it a great choice for gardeners who want to enjoy their harvest as soon as possible.

The plant height of the Burpee 'BushSteak' Hybrid is 22 inches, with a plant spread of 18 inches. Each plant yields 8-12 oz of fruit, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who want to maximize their harvest while conserving space. This variety is an annual and can be grown in all growing zones from 1-11. It requires full-sun exposure to thrive.

Gardeners can find over 1000 Burpee vegetable, herb, and flower seeds on Amazon, making it easy to find the perfect seeds for their garden. For those who want to give their seeds a great start, Burpee also offers a Seed Starting Kit that contains everything needed to grow healthy, vigorous seedlings.

Burpee has been the gardener's best friend since 1876, providing beautiful plants and everything else needed to grow the garden of their dreams. As America's most trusted seed company, Burpee never uses GMOs, ensuring that gardeners can grow their plants with confidence. With the Burpee 'BushSteak' Hybrid, gardeners can enjoy a delicious, high-quality tomato variety that is perfect for any garden.

6. Patio Tomato Seeds – Hybrid

Patio Tomato Seeds – Hybrid is a perfect option for those who want to grow tomatoes but have limited space. The package contains 15 seeds, and it is an excellent choice for small gardens and containers. This variety is a dwarf plant that produces large yields of 3-4 oz fruit on compact determinate plants.

This hybrid variety is perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance plant that requires less pruning and staking than other tomato varieties. The compact plant grows to around 2 feet tall, making it perfect for small patios or balconies. The plant's small size also makes it ideal for kids who love to garden, as they can easily reach the fruit for harvesting.

The fruit produced by Patio Tomato Seeds – Hybrid is small, measuring around 2 inches in diameter, but it is packed with flavor. The tomatoes are perfect for salads, sandwiches, and snacking, and they have a sweet taste that kids love. These tomatoes are also perfect for canning or making sauces, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

One of the best features of Patio Tomato Seeds – Hybrid is that it is a determinate plant. This means that it produces a set amount of fruit and then stops growing, making it easier to manage and harvest. This also makes it easier to plan for planting and harvesting, as you can predict when the plant will stop producing fruit.

Overall, Patio Tomato Seeds – Hybrid is an excellent choice for those who want to grow tomatoes in small spaces. It is a low-maintenance plant that produces large yields of delicious fruit, making it perfect for families who love to garden. With its compact size and excellent flavor, this variety is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

7. Homesteader Seed Vault – 50 Heirloom Non-Gmo Varieties For Planting Victory Gardens – Survival Food Emergency Preparedness Kit.

The Survival Garden Seeds Homesteader Seed Vault is a comprehensive collection of 50 non-GMO and non-hybrid heirloom seeds, designed to provide a robust and sustainable source of fresh produce for years to come. The seeds are open-pollinated and naturally grown, selected from proven varieties with excellent germination rates, ensuring a bountiful harvest for the home gardener.

The Homesteader Seed Vault is an excellent investment for those interested in growing their own vegetables, herbs, and flowers. With a variety of crops that can grow during both cool and warm seasons, the Homesteader Seed Vault provides a year-round source of fresh produce. The excess produce can be stored by canning, drying, or freezing for later use, providing a sustainable source of food for the family.

The Homesteader Seed Vault includes a wide range of herbs, fruits, and vegetables to grow, including tomatoes, peppers, cruciferous vegetables, herbs, melons, carrots, beets, radishes, greens, okra, squash, cucumbers, and more. The individual seed packs come in beautiful paper packaging that can be used to mark rows or stored for reference. The packaging includes info-rich instructions with important details for successful planting, growth, and seed saving.

The Survival Seed Vault is designed for long-term storage and emergency preparedness. The waterproof zip packaging shields seeds from temperature, moisture, and light, ensuring the seeds remain viable for years to come. The zip bag can be reused for future seed storage and fits easily in a bug-out bag in case of emergency.

In summary, the Survival Garden Seeds Homesteader Seed Vault is an ideal investment for anyone interested in growing their own fresh produce. The high-quality non-GMO and non-hybrid heirloom seeds provide a sustainable source of food for the family, with a wide range of crops that can grow in all seasons. The individual seed packs come with detailed instructions for successful planting and growth, while the waterproof zip packaging ensures long-term storage and emergency preparedness.

8. Dwarf Bush Tomatoes Seeds For Planting 25+ Seeds Indoor Vegetable Garden

The Dwarf Bush Tomatoes Seeds for Planting is a perfect choice for individuals who are interested in gardening and growing their vegetables. This product comes with 25+ seeds that can be utilized to create an indoor vegetable garden that can be grown all year round.

This round bush tomato is an easy-to-grow plant that produces fruits up to 2 oz. It is ideal for those who want to grow tomatoes on their windowsill as it can be grown in pots, containers, hanging baskets, or patio. During the winter season, it is recommended to grow the plant under lights to ensure that it receives enough sunlight.

It is crucial to keep in mind that the amount of sunlight and water that the plant receives will affect the taste of the tomatoes. Therefore, it is best to grow tomatoes on a sunny window to ensure that they taste as delicious as possible. In addition, individuals can pollinate the plant by hand using a cotton swab or placing a fan towards the plant.

The seller of the Dwarf Bush Tomatoes Seeds for Planting is committed to providing excellent customer service. They would be happy to help if customers have any questions or problems with their orders. Customers can send a message to the seller, and they will receive a prompt response.

In conclusion, the Dwarf Bush Tomatoes Seeds for Planting is an excellent product for individuals who want to grow tomatoes on their windowsill. It is easy to grow and can be cultivated all year round. By following the necessary growing guidelines, individuals can ensure that they produce the tastiest tomatoes possible. The seller is also committed to providing excellent customer service and is always available to assist customers with any questions or concerns.

9. Burpee Celebrity Hybrid Tomato Seeds – 35 Non-Gmo, Disease-Resistant Seeds For Big, Juicy Summer Sandwiches.

Burpee Celebrity Hybrid Tomato Seeds are a top-of-the-line option for gardeners looking to grow their own fresh and flavorful tomatoes. This award-winning variety yields a bountiful crop of big, juicy slicing tomatoes that are perfect for summer sandwiches or salads. The taste of a home-grown tomato is one that will never be forgotten, and these seeds make it easy to achieve that delicious flavor.

One of the standout features of the 'Celebrity' tomato variety is its superb disease resistance. This means that even novice gardeners can expect a healthy and plentiful harvest from these determinate tomato plants. The fruit itself is crack-resistant and can weigh up to 7 ounces, making it an ideal choice for slicing and serving. With a harvest time of just 70 days after transplanting, these seeds are a great option for gardeners looking for a quick and easy-growing tomato variety.

To get started with these seeds, it is recommended to sow them indoors 6-8 weeks before the average last frost date using a Burpee seed starting kit. Once the seedlings have sprouted, they can be transplanted outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. To ensure a successful transition, it is important to harden off the seedlings by leaving them outdoors in their containers for up to a week before transplanting.

One of the best things about Burpee Celebrity Hybrid Tomato Seeds is that they are non-GMO. Burpee is committed to offering the highest quality seeds that are hand-picked by expert horticulturalists for growing in the home garden. Their germination rates are 35% higher than industry standards, meaning gardeners can expect a higher success rate when growing their own tomatoes from these seeds.

Burpee has been a trusted name in gardening for over 140 years, and they stand behind their products 100%. If a gardener is unsatisfied with their purchase, Burpee aims to make it right. Each order is treated with special care to ensure healthy seeds are packaged and shipped in excellent condition.

In summary, Burpee Celebrity Hybrid Tomato Seeds are an excellent choice for gardeners looking to grow their own fresh and flavorful tomatoes. With their disease resistance, easy-growing nature, and non-GMO status, these seeds are a top-of-the-line option that is sure to yield a bountiful crop of delicious tomatoes.

10. 20+ Non-Gmo Beefsteak Tomato Seeds For Home Garden Greenhouse

The Beefsteak Tomato (Red-Determinate) Seeds are a perfect addition to any home garden, greenhouse, or flower bed. With over 20 seeds included in each pack, gardeners can enjoy an abundance of fresh, organic, non-GMO tomatoes all season long.

To ensure successful growth, it is recommended to sow the seeds indoors four weeks prior to the last frost. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep and ensure regular watering and sunlight. Once the seedlings have matured, they can be transplanted into the desired location.

These heirloom seeds are carefully selected and grown in the USA, specifically in Texas, ensuring the highest quality and freshness. The Beefsteak Tomato (Red-Determinate) Seeds are organic and non-GMO, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious gardeners.

In addition to their delicious taste and nutritional benefits, these tomatoes are also aesthetically pleasing, adding a pop of color to any garden or flower bed. The expected blooming period is from spring to fall, providing an extended harvest season.

Gardeners of all levels can enjoy the satisfaction of growing their own fresh, delicious, and healthy produce with the Beefsteak Tomato (Red-Determinate) Seeds. With proper care and maintenance, gardeners can expect a bountiful harvest of juicy, ripe tomatoes to enjoy throughout the growing season. These seeds are a must-have for any home gardener looking to add variety and beauty to their garden while enjoying the benefits of fresh, organic produce.

Best Determinate Tomatoes For Containers FAQs

Can determinate tomatoes be grown in small containers, such as hanging baskets or window boxes?

Yes, determinate tomatoes can be grown in small containers like hanging baskets or window boxes. However, it is important to choose the right variety of determinate tomatoes that will fit well in small containers.

Determinate tomatoes are bushy and have a compact growth habit, which makes them suitable for growing in small spaces. They usually grow up to 3-4 feet tall and produce fruits all at once, which makes them ideal for container gardening.

When growing determinate tomatoes in small containers, it is important to provide them with adequate support and regular watering. They also need to be fertilized regularly to promote healthy growth and fruit development.

Overall, determinate tomatoes can be a great option for small space gardening, as long as the right variety is chosen and proper care is given to the plants.

How much soil depth do determinate tomatoes need in containers?

Determinate tomatoes require a soil depth of at least 12 inches in containers. This depth allows the roots to spread out and grow properly, providing the necessary support for the plant to thrive. It also helps to prevent waterlogging and soil compaction, which can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases. If you are growing determinate tomatoes in a smaller container, you can try using a shallower root system, but it is crucial to provide adequate drainage and nutrients to prevent stunted growth. Remember that container-grown plants need more frequent watering and fertilization than those grown in the ground, so it is essential to monitor your plant regularly and adjust your care routine accordingly.

How often should determinate tomatoes be watered and fertilized when grown in containers?

Determinate tomatoes grown in containers should be watered consistently, but not over-watered. The frequency of watering depends on the size of the container, the type of soil, and the weather conditions. When the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water the plant. It's important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can lead to stress and wilting of the plant.

As for fertilization, determinate tomatoes in containers require regular feeding to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Adding a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks is recommended. However, it's important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to burnt roots and damage the plant. It's best to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and not exceed the recommended amount. Additionally, using a slow-release fertilizer can provide long-term nutrition for the plant.

What are the best determinate tomato varieties for container gardening?

As container gardening has become increasingly popular over the years, many tomato varieties have been developed to thrive in smaller spaces. The best determinate tomato varieties for container gardening are those that produce a compact plant and have a relatively short growing period. Some of the most popular determinate tomato varieties for container gardening include 'Celebrity,' 'Bush Early Girl,' 'Roma,' 'Patio,' and 'Better Bush.' These varieties have been bred specifically for container growing and produce a high yield of fruit in a small space.

When selecting a determinate tomato variety for container gardening, it is important to consider the size of the container, the amount of sunlight the plant will receive, and the quality of the soil. It is also important to provide adequate support for the plant as it grows, such as a stake or tomato cage. With the right care and attention, container-grown tomatoes can be just as productive as those grown in a traditional garden bed.

What kind of support do determinate tomatoes require when grown in containers?

Determinate tomatoes grown in containers require support to prevent their stems from breaking due to the weight of the fruit. The best support for determinate tomatoes is a sturdy stake or cage that can be anchored into the soil of the container. The stake or cage should be at least 3 feet tall to support the tomato plant as it grows.

For smaller determinate tomato plants, a stake can be used to provide support by tying the stem to the stake using soft ties. As the tomato plant grows, additional ties can be added to keep the stem upright and prevent it from bending or breaking.

Alternatively, a tomato cage can be used to support determinate tomatoes. The cage should be placed in the container at the time of planting and the tomato plant should be carefully guided through the cage as it grows. This will help the plant grow upright and prevent the fruit from touching the ground, reducing the risk of rot or disease.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!