Solanum lycopersicum

tomato

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Taxonomy

Common Names

tomato

Context

nativeRegion

Western South America (Andean region).

usdaZones

Grown as annual in all zones; perennially hardy only in USDA 10–11.

companionPlants

Basil, Marigold, Carrot, Onion

culturalUses

Widely cultivated vegetable for edible fruit (tomato); integral in global cuisines, sauces, salads, and condiments.

Care

LightFull sun (at least 6-8 hours per day for best growth and fruiting).

WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not soggy—deep, regular watering, especially during fruit set.

SoilWell-drained, fertile loam; pH 6.0–6.8.

FertilizerBalanced fertilizer or compost prior to planting, then additional feeding (high in potassium and phosphorus) as fruit sets.

HumidityModerate, with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases; avoid wetting foliage.

TemperatureOptimal 21°C–27°C (70°F–80°F); frost-sensitive.

HabitUpright, vining or bushy annual; some cultivars indeterminate (vining), others determinate (bushy).

Mature SizeVaries with cultivar; 1–3 m (3–10 ft) tall.

Growth RateFast-growing in warm conditions.

BloomingYellow star-shaped flowers, usually throughout the growing season.

DormancyNo true dormancy; grown as annual in most regions.

MethodsSeeds, Cuttings

DifficultyEasy from seed

Best SeasonSpring, after frost danger has passed

PruningRemove side shoots (suckers) on vining varieties to improve airflow and fruit production.

RepottingOnly for container-grown plants if root-bound; usually started in trays and transplanted.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to blight, wilt, aphids, whiteflies, tomato hornworm.

ToxicityLeaves and unripe fruit are toxic if ingested (contain solanine).