The Best Types of Tomatoes to Grow in the South

Discover The Best Types Of Tomatoes to grow in the South. Learn about heat-tolerant, disease-resistant varieties and tips for growing tomatoes successfully in the warm, humid southern climate.

Tomatoes are a staple in many gardens across the United States, but growing them in the South can come with its own set of challenges due to the warm, humid climate. To achieve a successful harvest, it’s important to choose tomato varieties that can thrive in these conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the best types of tomatoes to grow in the South and provide tips for growing them.

Choosing the Right Tomato Varieties

When selecting tomatoes for your southern garden, look for varieties that are heat-tolerant, disease-resistant, and have a shorter growing season. These qualities will help your tomatoes thrive in the South’s climate.

1. Arkansas Traveler

Arkansas Traveler is a popular heirloom variety known for its heat and crack resistance. It produces medium-sized, pinkish-red tomatoes with a sweet, mild flavor.

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2. Celebrity

Celebrity is a widely grown hybrid variety with excellent disease resistance. It produces medium-sized, round tomatoes with a rich flavor.

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3. Creole

Creole is a southern favorite that thrives in hot, humid climates. It produces medium to large, deep red tomatoes with a robust flavor.

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4. Better Boy

Better Boy is a classic hybrid tomato variety known for its high yields and disease resistance. It produces large, flavorful tomatoes.

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5. Heatmaster

Heatmaster is specifically bred to withstand the high temperatures of southern summers. It produces medium-sized, red tomatoes with good flavor.

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6. Cherokee Purple

Cherokee Purple is a beloved heirloom variety that can handle the southern heat. It produces large, dark red-purple tomatoes with a rich, complex flavor.

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7. Juliet

Juliet is a grape tomato variety that performs well in hot, humid climates. It produces clusters of small, red tomatoes with a sweet flavor.

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Tips for Growing Tomatoes in the South

• Choose the right location: Plant tomatoes in a spot with full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day.
• Provide support: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support indeterminate varieties and keep the fruit off the ground.
• Mulch: Apply mulch around your plants to help retain soil moisture and control weeds.
• Water consistently: Water your tomatoes regularly, aiming for deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root growth.
• Fertilize properly: Use a balanced fertilizer at planting and during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
• Monitor for pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common issues like aphids, hornworms, and fungal diseases.

By choosing the best tomato varieties for the South and following these growing tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes. Experiment with different types to find your favorites and discover what works best for your garden.