best tomatoes to grow in nc

3 min read 20-12-2024

North Carolina's diverse climate offers a fantastic opportunity to grow a wide variety of tomatoes. However, choosing the right variety for your specific region and growing conditions is key to a bountiful harvest. This guide explores some of the best tomatoes to grow in NC, categorized by their growing habits and ideal conditions. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, you'll find the perfect tomato for your North Carolina garden.

Understanding NC's Growing Zones

North Carolina spans several USDA Plant Hardiness Zones, ranging from Zone 7a in the mountains to Zone 8b along the coast. This variation means that the best tomato varieties will differ depending on your location. Consider your specific zone when selecting seeds or seedlings. Knowing your zone helps predict the last frost date and the first expected frost, crucial information for tomato planting.

Best Tomato Varieties for North Carolina

Early Season Tomatoes (for shorter growing seasons):

Early Girl: A classic choice known for its fast maturation, making it ideal for shorter growing seasons in higher elevations or cooler microclimates of NC. Expect a prolific harvest of small, red fruits. This is a great choice for beginners.
Stupice: An heirloom variety that produces an abundance of small, red, intensely flavored tomatoes early in the season. It's relatively disease-resistant and thrives even in less-than-perfect conditions. A favorite among experienced gardeners.
Celebrity: A hybrid known for its disease resistance and ability to produce a large crop of medium-sized, red tomatoes early in the season. This is a good all-around choice for many parts of NC.

Mid-Season Tomatoes (for average growing seasons):

Brandywine: A popular heirloom known for its large, pink or red fruits and incredibly rich flavor. It requires a longer growing season but is well worth the wait for its superior taste. Requires more attention to staking and disease prevention.
Cherokee Purple: Another heirloom favorite, this variety produces large, dark purple tomatoes with a unique, slightly sweet flavor. The dark color comes from high levels of antioxidants.
Roma: A classic paste tomato, perfect for making sauces, salsas, and canning. These oblong fruits are less prone to cracking and are more easily processed.

Late-Season Tomatoes (for longer growing seasons and warmer climates):

San Marzano: Another excellent paste tomato, known for its intense flavor and long shape, ideal for canning. This variety thrives in the warmer parts of NC.
Black Krim: This heirloom variety produces dark purplish-brown, almost black tomatoes with a rich, earthy flavor. Requires a long, warm growing season to fully ripen.
Mortgage Lifter: A classic heirloom known for its incredibly large yields of large, pink-red tomatoes. Needs ample space and staking.

Choosing the Right Tomato for Your Needs:

When selecting your tomatoes, consider these factors:

Your growing zone and expected frost dates: This will determine how long your growing season is.
Space available: Some varieties are larger and require more space than others.
Your desired tomato type: Do you want slicing tomatoes, paste tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes?
Disease resistance: Choose varieties known for their resistance to common tomato diseases like blight.

Tips for Growing Tomatoes in North Carolina

Start seeds indoors: Starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost will give your plants a head start.
Choose a sunny location: Tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Provide adequate support: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to keep plants upright and prevent fruit from rotting on the ground.
Water regularly: Consistent watering is crucial, especially during dry spells.
Fertilize appropriately: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Monitor for pests and diseases: Be vigilant and address any issues promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cherry tomatoes to grow in NC?

Several excellent cherry tomato varieties thrive in NC, including Sweet 100, Sun Gold (yellow), and Juliet (plum-shaped). These are generally earlier-maturing and prolific producers.

When is the best time to plant tomatoes in NC?

The best time to plant tomatoes in NC is after the last frost, typically between mid-April and mid-May in most areas. However, this varies depending on your specific location and elevation.

By carefully selecting the right tomato varieties and following proper growing techniques, you can enjoy a delicious and abundant harvest of homegrown tomatoes in your North Carolina garden. Happy gardening!