(Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme)

Nothing is more quintessential to the taste of summer than cherry tomatoes! Our family generally snacks on these bite sized bursts of flavor straight off the vine. There are two types of cherry tomatoes- determinate and indeterminate. Determinate varieties reach a certain plant height and then stop growing- producing their fruit over a one to two month time period. Do not prune determinate varieties! Indeterminate varieties grow in a more vining pattern, require trellising, and generally perform well when pruned. Indeterminate varieties will continue to produce all season long until the frost.

Black Cherry- Black tomatoes are known for their rich flavor and this variety showcases it well. These grape sized tomatoes are prolific and produce fruit that has a distinct, unique flavor. Indeterminate but small plants.

Brad’s Atomic Grape- From legendary plant breeder Brad Gates of Wild Boar Farms. This is the most beautiful tomato we grow! Purple striped when immature, turning to green, red / brown with anthocycnin blue stripes when fully ripe. Delicately sweet and unique flavor. Indeterminate.

Chadwick Cherry- Heirloom variety developed by the late horticultural expert Alan Chadwick. Large vines are major climbers and produces large sized cherries with rich, full tomato flavor. Indeterminate.

Galina’s Cherry-

Grappoli d’Inverno-

Harvest Luck-

Santiam Sunrise-

Sungold Select 2- One of the most popular varieties of cherry tomatoes and for good reason! These extra sweet tomatoes grow on vigorous plants that start yielding early and bear throughout the entire season. The best tasting cherry tomato in our opinions. Indeterminate.

Sunrise Bumble Bee- Gorgeous combination of yellow and red swirls both inside and out. Sweet but tangy flavor. These small fruit grow on vigorous plants that perform well under tough conditions. Indeterminate.

Wheatley Frost Resistant-

Planting Information:

Tomatoes can be planted in the garden after the danger of frost has passed and when the soil has warmed to roughly 50 degrees. In the Portland area, this is generally early to mid-May. A good rule of thumb is to plant your tomatoes out on Mother’s Day Weekend.

Photos by Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company and Johnny’s Seed Company.