"Indeterminate" and "determinate" tomatoes?

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christine
User offline. Last seen 3 weeks 13 hours ago. Offline
Joined: 11/26/2008

Since I didn't know the difference, I looked it up and found once again:

http://www.tomatofest.com/

Found that site previously and they have tons of info on all things tomatoes.

http://www.tomatofest.com/tomato-questions.html

What's the difference between "indeterminate" and "determinate" tomatoes?

Determinate tomatoes, or "bush" tomatoes, are varieties that grow to a compact height (generally 3 - 4'). Determinates stop growing when fruit sets on the top bud. All the tomatoes from the plant ripen at approximately the same time (usually over period of 1- 2 weeks). They require a limited amount of staking for support and are perfectly suited for container planting.

 

Indeterminate tomatoes will grow and produce fruit until killed by frost. They can reach heights of up to 12 feet although 6 feet is normal. Indeterminates will bloom, set new fruit and ripen fruit all at the same time throughout the season. They require substantial staking for support.

So much to know.  I had no idea and I've been growing tomatoes for many years.