Determining whether your cherry tomatoes are determinate or indeterminate can be a bit tricky, but there are a few key factors you can look for to help you determine their growth habit.
1. Growth and Size: One of the primary indicators is the growth and size of the tomato plant. Determinate cherry tomato plants tend to have a more compact and bushy growth habit. They typically reach a predetermined height, usually around 3 to 4 feet, and stop growing vertically. On the other hand, indeterminate cherry tomato plants continue to grow and can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet or even more, depending on the variety.
2. Fruit Production: Another important characteristic to consider is the fruit production of the plant. Determinate cherry tomato plants tend to produce a large number of fruits at once, typically within a short period. Once these fruits are harvested, the plant’s productivity declines significantly, and it may stop producing altogether. Indeterminate cherry tomato plants, however, have a more prolonged and continuous fruiting period. They produce fruits throughout the growing season until the first frost hits.
3. Pruning and Support: Observing the need for pruning and support can also give you a clue about the growth habit. Determinate cherry tomato plants usually require less pruning and support since they have a more compact growth habit. However, indeterminate cherry tomato plants often benefit from pruning to manage their vigorous growth and may require staking or trellising to support the tall vines and heavy fruit load.
4. Seed Packet or Plant Label: If you purchased your cherry tomato plants from a nursery or garden center, check the plant label or seed packet for information. It often indicates whether the variety is determinate or indeterminate.
5. Personal Experience: If you have grown the same variety of cherry tomatoes in previous years, you can also rely on your personal experience. Note whether the plant continued to produce fruit until the end of the season or if it stopped after a certain period.
It’s important to note that some cherry tomato varieties can exhibit characteristics of both determinate and indeterminate growth habits. These are often referred to as semi-determinate or semi-indeterminate. In such cases, the plant may have a more compact growth habit but still produce fruits over an extended period.
By considering these factors and observing the growth, fruit production, and support needs of your cherry tomato plants, you should be able to determine whether they are determinate or indeterminate.
