Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum • Solanaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Vegetable
🌍 Origin Region
Central and South America; widely adapted to temperate and tropical regions worldwide
📅 Days to Maturity
75-90 days from transplanting; harvest window lasts until first frost.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-11 (Grown as an annual); tender perennial in frost-free tropical climates.
About This Seed
Seeds are small, flat, tan/creamy white, and slightly fuzzy (pubescent). The plant is an indeterminate vining herb with serrated leaves, producing large, ribbed, fleshy red fruit reaching 1-2 lbs.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Warm Season; spring planting after last frost, indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
Germination
7-14 days at 70-80°F (21-27°C). Requires light-blocking soil cover but warm ambient light for growth; 80% plus germination rate expected.
Planting Instructions
Planting depth: 1/4 inch; Spacing: 18-24 inches; Soil: well-draining, rich in organic matter; pH: 6.0-6.8.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (6-8+ hours); consistent deep watering (1-2 inches per week); moderate drought tolerance once established.
Companion Plants
Beneficial: Basil, Marigolds, Carrots, Garlic, Chives; Avoid: Potatoes, Fennel, Cabbage, Walnuts.
Special Characteristics
High vitamin C and Lycopene content; pollinator-friendly; susceptible to early blight but heat tolerant; requires staking or caging.