Tomatoes

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Image of an assortment of Tomatoes from the SILT landowners guide.

Tomatoes are a popular crop for many direct-to-consumer growers. The hundreds of varieties available offer shapes, colors and sizes that can make a market stand or chef’s plate stand out to customers. Heirloom varieties from Seed Savers Exchange in Decorah may add a special element of value to Iowa customers. Tomatoes can be started from seed in temperature-controlled environments or from transplants. Tomatoes are differentiated from each other in their growth and fruiting habits. Determinant plant growth ends during the season and fruits for 2–3 weeks and indeterminate growth continues until frost and fruiting continues.

Initial Costs

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Considerations:
  • Trellising
  • Pruning
  • Pest and blossom rot management
Cream of the Crop Resources:

University of Illinois: Tomatoes