Can I grow different tomato varieties together?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Having various tomato varieties together makes for a colorful, productive garden, but they do require careful consideration. Each kind has its own spacing requirements and growth habits that need to be accounted for. I have been able to grow twelve varieties in my backyard garden by putting them together, based on size and growth habit. This keeps them from competing with each other while still allowing the advantage of cross-pollination.
Keep in mind that spacing of a specific variety is your most important rule. Despite cherry tomatoes having smaller fruit, you will require 24-30" between plants (61-76 cm) because of the extensive length of the vines. Beefsteak varieties require 30+ inches (76 + cm) due to their large canopy and heavy fruit clusters. Fireline-determinate variety bushes distance themselves from indeterminate climbing variety vines, as they define their space needs completely differently.
Growth Habit Grouping
- Determinate varieties: Plant in blocks for simultaneous harvest
- Indeterminate vines: Position along trellises or fences
- Container types: Group on patios with matching sunlight
- Micro dwarfs: Cluster in front for easy access
Pollination Management
- Separate heirlooms 15 feet from hybrids
- Group similar bloom-time varieties
- Avoid cross-pollination of seed-saving plants
- Use barrier plants like corn between types
Organize your space based on similarities in growth habits. Keep determinate varieties together in square areas because they all mature at the same time. Grow indeterminate vines on north-south trellises to avoid shading. I use colored stakes to define zones of varieties, so I don't accidentally overcrowd during maintenance.
Manage individualized plant needs efficiently. Typically, high-calcium supplements are recommended for beefsteak tomatoes, while mild calcium supplements are recommended for cherry tomatoes. And when it comes to water determinants, you schedule less as they approach harvest. Install staking before planting to avoid disturbing the plant's roots. These methods enable multiple harvests without compromising the well-being of your plants.
Read the full article: Tomato Plant Spacing: Expert Tips for Maximum Yield
