By JASON GRAVES
K-State Research and Extension
Central District Horticulturist
Winter is the perfect time to plan your garden and explore new tomato varieties. Each year, the Central Kansas District Extension Master Gardeners participate in a statewide trial organized by K-State Research and Extension, testing new tomato varieties alongside trusted favorites. The 2024 trial results provide valuable insight into which varieties can thrive in Kansas’s unique climate.
Top determinate tomatoes
Determinate tomatoes are perfect for gardeners seeking a concentrated harvest for preserving or sharing. These varieties stay compact, grow to a set size, and produce fruit within a shorter time frame, making them ideal for those wanting a manageable, high-yield crop.
The top three determinate varieties from the trial include Celebrity, which served as the trial check variety and emerged as the top performer with an impressive yield of 428 lbs. Renowned for its excellent disease resistance and medium-sized, flavorful fruit, Celebrity is a reliable choice for both fresh eating and preserving.
Close behind was Grand Marshall, which produced 395 lbs. of slightly larger fruits, averaging 8–12 ounces. Combining high yield, outstanding flavor, and robust disease resistance, Grand Marshall is an excellent option to consider for gardeners who value both quality and quantity in their harvest.
Florida 91, a heat-set determinate variety, delivered a solid 384 lbs. during the trial. Its ability to pollinate at slightly higher temperatures than other varieties allow it to withstand hot conditions and still provide consistent production. This resilience makes it a dependable choice for gardeners preparing for the heatwaves of Kansas summers.
Top Indeterminate Varieties
For gardeners who enjoy fresh tomatoes all season long, indeterminate varieties are an excellent choice. These plants grow larger, produce continuously, and provide a steady harvest over time.
Loki, a new variety in the 2024 trial, was the top performer, delivering an impressive yield of 443 lbs. of medium-sized fruits averaging 6–8 ounces. With vigorous growth, high yields, and consistently excellent fruit quality, Loki is a nice option for those seeking extended production throughout the growing season.
Jetstar, the trial’s check variety, produced 426 lbs. of 10-ounce fruits. Renowned for its outstanding flavor, attractive appearance, and strong disease resistance, Jetstar remains a trusted favorite among Central Kansas gardeners, providing dependable performance year after year.
Rubee Dawn also impressed during the 2024 trial, yielding 326 lbs. of 4–6-ounce fruits. Its steady production and reliable fruit quality make it another nice choice for gardeners seeking a consistent supply of fresh tomatoes throughout the season.
Choosing tomato varieties
When choosing tomato varieties for your 2025 garden, consider your goals. If you want a high-yielding crop for preserving or canning, determinate varieties like Celebrity and Grand Marshall are ideal. For a steady supply of fresh tomatoes, indeterminate varieties such as Loki and Jetstar are better suited. Growing a mix of both types of tomatoes can provide the benefits of concentrated and continuous harvests.
For the complete results of the 2024 tomato trial, visit the K-State Research and Extension Central Kansas District Lawn and Garden Blog at www.ckdgardens.com.
Tips for success
To set yourself up for success, start tomato seeds indoors by mid-to-late March. This allows seedlings 6-8 weeks to develop before outdoor planting. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by hardening them off. Once the soil has warmed, apply mulch to regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Using drip irrigation can reduce disease risk by keeping foliage dry. Be vigilant about pests like hornworms and spider mites, and address issues promptly to protect your plants.
With the right varieties and proper care, your 2025 tomato garden can be both productive and rewarding. These trial-tested varieties are excellent choices to consider including in your planting plan.