Grape tomatoes are a fun, tasty variety perfect for gardens or containers. Their petite size and prolific fruiting makes them a joy to grow. Follow this guide to successfully plant and cultivate a bountiful crop of grape tomatoes.
Overview of Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes are a type of small cherry tomato. They are oval-shaped and about the size of a grape, ranging from 1 to 2 inches long. Popular varieties include:
- Sweet Olive – Red, early producer, high yields
- Jasper – Red, sweet flavor, crack resistant
- Smarty – Disease resistant, long harvest window
- Red Pearl – Small, sweet, early harvest
The plants grow similar to other full-size tomatoes reaching 4-5 feet tall if staked. Grape tomatoes can be grown in garden beds or containers. With proper care you’ll be rewarded with heavy yields of sweet, flavorful fruits perfect for salads and snacking.
When to Plant Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes need warm soil and air to thrive. Plant them outdoors in spring after all chance of frost has passed.
For many areas, mid to late May is a good target. Use the last expected frost date for your zone as a guideline.
You can get a head start by sowing seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost date. Then transplant seedlings outside after hardening them off.
Preparing the Soil for Grape Tomatoes
Good soil preparation is key. Grape tomatoes need:
- Full sun – At least 6 hours of direct sun daily
- Loose, well-draining soil
- pH between 6.0-6.8
- Rich in organic matter
Before planting, work aged compost or manure into the top 6 inches of soil to enrich it. You can also mix in a balanced fertilizer.
How to Plant Grape Tomato Seedlings
If growing grape tomatoes from seedlings, follow these tips when transplanting:
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Harden off plants for 7-10 days before transplanting. Gradually expose them to more sun and wind.
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Carefully dig holes at least 12 inches apart in rows 36 inches apart. Closer spacing risks overcrowding.
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Place seedlings in holes and fill with surrounding soil, covering stems up to the lowest set of leaves.
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Water transplants thoroughly. Apply mulch to retain moisture.
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Install tomato cages over each plant or install stakes and trellising. Grape tomatoes need support.
Caring for Grape Tomato Plants
Once your grape tomato plants are established, follow these care guidelines for robust growth and fruiting:
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Water 1-2 inches per week. Provide regular deep soakings.
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Weed regularly to prevent competition for water and nutrients.
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Apply balanced fertilizer monthly when plants begin flowering.
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Prune suckers and trim wayward vines. Focus growth toward main stems.
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Stake, cage, or trellis plants to keep them upright and prevent disease.
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Monitor for common tomato pests like hornworms and cutworms. Remove by hand if found.
Proper staking and pruning will promote good air circulation and sun exposure for the best growth and fruit production.
When Grape Tomatoes Are Ready to Harvest
Grape tomatoes ripen around 60-80 days after transplanting. Look for these signs fruits are ready to pick:
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Tomatoes turn red all over with no green spots
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They feel firm yet spring back slightly when squeezed
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A light “shoulder” remains around the stem
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Fruits pull off the vine easily
Harvest ripe grapes carefully to avoid bruising. Enjoy fresh or let fully ripen indoors. Store extras in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
Storing Grape Tomatoes
Fresh grape tomatoes will keep for 2-3 weeks if stored properly:
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Leave stem attached and store unwashed, uncut in refrigerator.
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Place in perforated plastic bag in crisper drawer.
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Keep them away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples which accelerate spoiling.
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Wash just before eating. Discard any spoiled or mushy tomatoes immediately.
For best flavor and nutrition, enjoy grape tomatoes as fresh as possible. But with proper harvest timing and storage, you can enjoy their sweet burst of flavor long after the growing season ends.
How to grow grape tomato plants from one grape tomato
FAQ
How deep to plant grape tomatoes?
Do grape tomatoes need support?
Can you grow grape tomatoes in pots?
Do grape tomato plants need cages?
How do you plant grape tomatoes in the summer?
From selecting a sun-kissed spot with well-draining soil to prepping the area for planting by clearing weeds and debris, every step counts. As warm-season darlings, grape tomatoes (vegetables) thrive in the summer heat but require protection from scorching temperatures and unexpected chills.
Can one eat grape seeds?
It is safe to consume grape seeds. Contraindications are for cases of diverticulitis and other more specific situations. But healthy individuals can consume without problem.
How do you grow grape tomatoes from seed?
Moisten the potting mix or potting soil with water. Sow the grape tomato seeds about a quarter of an inch deep and cover them with potting mix or potting soil. Water the seeds gently, and place the container in a warm and sunny location. Grape tomatoes require full sun to produce fruit.
Where should grape tomatoes be planted?
Choose a location with minimal shade and clear obstructions, such as tall trees or buildings, that may cast shadows on your plants. If you’re growing grape tomatoes in containers, place them in an area where they can soak up the sun’s rays.