Pole tomatoes, also known as indeterminate tomatoes, are a vining type of tomato plant that continuously grows, blossoms, and produces fruit over an extended period, typically from early summer until the first hard frost. Unlike their bush (determinate) counterparts, these plants do not stop growing at a certain height but instead keep elongating, requiring significant support to thrive.
Understanding Indeterminate Growth
The term "indeterminate" refers to the plant's growth habit. This means that pole tomatoes continue to grow vegetatively (producing stems and leaves) while simultaneously producing flowers and fruit along the entire length of their vines. This progressive fruiting ensures a steady supply of fresh tomatoes for several months, rather than a single, concentrated harvest.
Key Characteristics of Pole Tomatoes:
- Continuous Growth: Vines can reach lengths of 6-10 feet or more, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
- Extended Harvest: Fruit production occurs progressively, allowing for a harvest that lasts throughout the growing season until frost.
- Vigorous Vining: They develop strong, sprawling vines that require structural support.
- Higher Yield Over Time: While determinate varieties produce a large crop all at once, indeterminate types offer a consistent, albeit smaller, yield per pick, accumulating to a significant total over the season.
- Best When Staked: Due to their continuous growth and heavy fruit load, pole tomatoes perform best when provided with robust support.
Essential Support Systems
Providing adequate support is crucial for the health and productivity of pole tomato plants. Without it, the sprawling vines can lie on the ground, making them susceptible to pests, diseases, and sunscald, and leading to lower-quality fruit.
Here are common support methods:
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Staking:
- Insert a sturdy stake (wood, metal, or bamboo) 1-2 feet deep into the ground next to the young plant.
- As the plant grows, gently tie the main stem to the stake using soft ties or fabric strips, ensuring not to constrict the stem.
- Repeat tying every 10-12 inches as the plant gains height.
- Example: A 6-foot metal rebar stake is often effective for most varieties.
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Caging:
- Use large, heavy-duty tomato cages made from welded wire. Flimsy cages often sold in garden centers are usually insufficient for the weight of mature indeterminate plants.
- Place the cage around the young plant and secure it firmly in the ground.
- The plant will grow up through the cage, with the vines supported by the wire mesh.
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Trellising:
- A trellis system involves wires or netting strung horizontally between sturdy posts.
- Plants can be tied to the wires, or their branches can be woven through the netting as they grow.
- Benefit: Trellises can offer excellent air circulation and make harvesting easier.
Pruning Pole Tomatoes
Pruning is an important practice for pole tomatoes, helping to manage their vigorous growth, improve air circulation, and direct the plant's energy into fruit production rather than excessive foliage.
- Remove "Suckers": These are small shoots that emerge from the axil (the point where a leaf stem meets the main stem). Removing suckers helps the plant focus its energy on the main stem and developing fruit.
- Bottom Leaves: Remove any leaves that touch the ground to prevent soil-borne diseases.
- Yellowing or Diseased Leaves: Regularly remove any discolored or diseased foliage to maintain plant health.
For more detailed guidance on caring for these plants, resources like Gardening Know How or university extension services offer valuable tips.
Pole vs. Bush Tomatoes: A Quick Comparison
Understanding the difference between pole (indeterminate) and bush (determinate) tomatoes can help gardeners choose the right variety for their space and desired harvest.
| Feature | Pole (Indeterminate) Tomatoes | Bush (Determinate) Tomatoes |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Habit | Continuous, vining, tall | Bushy, compact, self-topping |
| Height | 6-10+ feet (requires support) | 3-4 feet (often needs minimal support) |
| Fruit Set | Progressive, over many months | All at once, concentrated over weeks |
| Harvest | Extended, until frost | Shorter, uniform harvest |
| Yield | High total yield over season | Moderate total yield in short burst |
| Pruning | Recommended to manage growth | Less critical |
| Best For | Gardeners wanting fresh tomatoes daily; longer growing seasons | Canning/sauce makers; smaller spaces; shorter growing seasons |
Pole tomatoes are an excellent choice for gardeners who desire a continuous supply of fresh tomatoes throughout the summer and fall, provided they can offer the necessary support and occasional pruning.
