While you could just choose any variety, sow the seeds early, and plant it out as soon as possible (with plenty of protection from frost), you have a better chance of getting a decent crop by growing a variety of tomato that was bred for cooler weather. Many of the tomatoes listed below, as you’ll see, were developed in colder climates: Canada, Russia, former Czechoslovakia. These can withstand cooler temperatures in spring, without affecting how long it takes to harvest.
Tips for Early Season Tomato Growing
There are several other things you can do to help ensure an early harvest:
The warmer the soil, the better: Consider laying black or red plastic (which you can purchase through many garden catalogs) over the planting area. This will warm the soil, and the red plastic, specifically, reflects UV light up onto the undersides of the tomato leaves, which helps with photosynthesis. Grow your tomatoes in a raised bed garden: The soil in raised beds dries out earlier in spring and warms up more quickly than traditional garden beds as well. Use light to your advantage: If possible, take advantage of southern exposure for additional warmth. Have frost protection measures in place: Even though early season varieties generally withstand cool temperatures well, a frost will still damage them. Consider installing framing for a low tunnel, or have sheets or floating row covers on hand if frost threatens. Wall O’ Waters are a great option as well. Go organic: Be sure to learn how to properly grow organic tomatoes.
Ten Early Season Tomato Varieties
With these tips in mind, here are ten reliable early-season tomato varieties:
