Tomatoes are a favorite in many gardens because they are easy to grow and come in many varieties. But when it comes to growing them, gardeners often wonder: is it better to plant tomatoes in pots or directly in the ground? We asked gardening experts to find out.
Two Types of Tomatoes: Determinate and Indeterminate
Tomatoes come in two main types: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate tomatoes are bushy and grow to a certain size, producing fruit all at once. Examples include ‘Celebrity’ and ‘San Marzano Nano.’ These types do well in containers because they are smaller and easier to manage.
Indeterminate tomatoes are vining plants that keep growing and producing fruit throughout the season until frost. Varieties like ‘Beefsteak’ and ‘Sungold’ fall into this group. They usually need more space and support, making them better suited for planting in the ground or raised beds.
Experts Weigh In
Sarah Rubens, a certified garden coach and founder of Seed to Sanctuary in North Carolina, explains that knowing the difference between these tomato types is key to success. Tammy Sons, CEO of TN Nursery in Tennessee, agrees and adds that both growing methods have their benefits.
Growing Tomatoes in Containers
Containers offer several advantages:
- Better control over soil quality and drainage.
- Easier to move plants to follow the sun or avoid bad weather.
- Plants are more accessible for care and harvesting.
- Containers help protect plants from pests.
- Great for small spaces like patios or balconies.
Determinate tomatoes thrive in containers, but indeterminate types can also grow well in raised beds or large pots.
Growing Tomatoes in the Ground
Planting tomatoes directly in the soil also has perks:
- Plants need less frequent watering.
- Stakes and supports can be firmly anchored.
- Easier to install drip irrigation systems.
- Roots have more room to spread, which helps large varieties grow better.
- Generally, plants produce higher yields due to more space.
For indeterminate tomatoes, raised beds are a popular choice because they provide strong support and better soil management.
Which Is Better?
Both experts prefer container growing for convenience and pest control, especially for determinate varieties. However, for larger indeterminate tomatoes, raised beds or garden soil offer better support and space.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the tomato variety, your garden space, and how much time you want to spend caring for your plants.
