Omari Gates
Tomatoes are easy to grow in Australia, where they are a popular crop for home gardeners. They can be grown in all climate zones, from tropical to temperate, but will require different treatments. In tropical and subtropical climates, tomatoes can be grown all year round, but are best in autumn and winter during the dry season. In temperate, cool and cold climates, they should be sown in spring. Tomatoes love warmth and full sun, and need between six and 12 hours of sunlight a day to develop tasty fruit. They grow well in pots, troughs, hanging baskets, or in the ground, and are suited to a range of soil types.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Climate | Temperate, cool, cold, tropical, subtropical |
| Lighting | Bright, sunny spot with at least 6-8 hours of sun a day |
| Watering | Keep the soil moist—neither dry nor wet |
| Soil | Well-drained, with added fertiliser |
| Temperature | Average temperatures between 21-29°C; soil temperature between 15-16°C |
| Season | Spring and summer; autumn and winter in tropical and subtropical climates |
| Types | Cherry, Grape, Red Currant, Oxheart, Tommy Toes, Golden Jubilee, Yellow Pear, Clarence Truss, Beefsteak, Heirloom |
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What You'll Learn
Tomato varieties grown in Australia
Australia has a wide variety of climates, from tropical to temperate, and tomatoes can be grown in all of them. They are suited to a temperate climate and grow best in the spring and summer when they can receive a good dose of sunlight and warmth. They also require full sun to develop tasty fruit.
Tomatoes are available in many varieties, with different colours, flavours, sizes, and shapes. Here are some of the popular tomato varieties grown in Australia:
Cherry Tomatoes
One of the most popular varieties, cherry tomatoes are small, sweet, and juicy. They come in a range of colours, from red and orange to yellow and even shades close to black. They are a great addition to salads, providing a burst of flavour.
Tommy Toes
Known as Australia's favourite tomato, Tommy Toes have apricot-sized, bright red fruit with excellent flavour. They are tall growers that require staking and well-drained soil. They are usually ready for harvest within ten weeks of seeding.
Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes are less watery and sugary than cherry tomatoes, with an oblong shape and thicker skin. They have a higher fibre content and can be stored for longer.
Red Currant
Red currant tomatoes are native to Ecuador and Peru. They are the smallest of all tomato types, with an average weight of just three grams. They have a sweet and tart flavour, perfect for preserves and relishes.
Oxheart
The Oxheart tomato gets its name from its irregular shape, which resembles an animal's heart. This variety is meaty and is perfect for those who want a more substantial tomato.
Golden Jubilee
The Golden Jubilee tomato variety was first introduced in the United States in 1943. It has a bright yellow hue and a shape similar to the Oxheart tomato. It is lower in acidity than other varieties.
Yellow Pear
The Yellow Pear tomato is unique in its appearance and flavour. Its low acidity and sweet, tangy taste make it ideal for pickling and relishes.
Clarence Truss
The Clarence Truss variety produces small to medium-sized, round, juicy, and sweet fruit in late spring and summer. It is an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants. The plants can grow up to three metres tall and require staking for support.
Yates Tomato Varieties
Yates, an Australian company, offers several tomato varieties, including Big Beef, Grosse Lisse, Improved Apollo, Roma, Patio, Sweet Bite, and Tiny Tim. These varieties differ in fruit size, shape, colour, and growth habits. Some are ideal for salads, bottling, soups, and sauces, while others are perfect for containers and small gardens.
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When to plant tomatoes
Tomatoes are warm-season plants that need a growing season of at least three months, so they can be grown in all climate zones of Australia. In warm, frost-free regions, tomatoes can be grown all year round, whereas in temperate and cooler climates, the best time to plant is from the end of winter to spring.
Tomatoes love warmth and grow best during spring and summer, when temperatures average between 21 and 29°C. They can be sown in spring in temperate climates, but in tropical or subtropical climates, they can be grown year-round and harvested in the dry season (autumn and winter).
Tomatoes should be planted when the soil temperature reaches a minimum of 16°C, and 18-20°C would be even better. They can be grown in pots, troughs, or hanging baskets, and in all types of climates, but they need full sun to develop tasty fruit. They should be planted in a sunny spot with lots of air circulation, and they should be rotated each year.
In frost-prone areas, it is important to protect young plants from cold weather and frost by using clear plastic shelters, known as cloches, over individual plants. You can also make a mini polytunnel over the whole bed with plastic sheeting stretched over a poly pipe or metal frame.
To give tomatoes in cooler climates a head start, seeds can be germinated in small pots under glass or in a mini propagator. Sow your seeds six to eight weeks before you intend to plant them out and keep them in a warm, sunny spot.
Some of the best dates for planting tomatoes in 2024 are said to be:
- September: 1, 2, 5, 6, 9, 28, 29
- October: 2, 6, 7, 8, 26, 27
- November: 3, 4, 7, 26, 27, 30
- December: 4, 5, 6, 24, 27, 28
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Preparing the soil
Tomatoes are a popular crop to grow in Australia, and with the right conditions, they can thrive. Preparing the soil is a crucial step in ensuring a healthy tomato crop. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prepare the soil for your tomato plants:
Tomatoes prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It is important to test the pH of your soil before planting. You can use a soil testing kit, which can be purchased from most garden centres, to determine the pH of your soil. If the pH is too high, you can lower it by adding sulphur to the soil. On the other hand, if the pH is too low, you can raise it by adding lime. It is important to make these adjustments several months before planting to allow the soil time to adjust.
The ideal soil for tomato plants is rich, loose, and well-drained. To achieve this, it is important to mix in a generous amount of organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. This will help to improve the soil's structure, drainage, and nutrient content. It is best to mix the organic matter into the soil several weeks before planting to give it time to settle and start breaking down.
In addition to organic matter, it is also beneficial to mix in some slow-release granular fertiliser. This will provide your tomato plants with a consistent supply of nutrients throughout their growth. Look for a fertiliser that is specifically designed for tomatoes or one that has a balanced NPK ratio, such as 10-10-10. Work the fertiliser into the soil according to the package instructions, usually about two weeks before planting.
It is important to ensure that the soil is loose and free of any large clumps or stones. Use a garden fork or tiller to break up the soil and create a fine, crumbly texture. This will help the young tomato plants to penetrate the soil easily and establish a strong root system. It'll also improve drainage, preventing waterlogging and root rot.
Finally, consider adding some mulch to the surface of the soil after planting your tomatoes. A layer of organic mulch, such as straw or bark chips, will help to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. It will also continue to improve the soil structure and nutrient content as it breaks down over time. Be sure that the mulch doesn't touch the stems of the tomato plants to prevent rot and pest issues.
By following these steps, you can effectively prepare the soil for your tomato plants, giving them the best possible start and setting them up for a healthy, productive growing season.
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Tomato growing conditions
Tomatoes are easy to grow in Australia and can be grown in all climate zones, from tropical to temperate. However, the timing and methods will vary depending on the climate and location.
In tropical and subtropical climates, tomatoes can be grown all year round, but they are best grown in the autumn and winter, during the dry season. In temperate, cool, and cold climates, it is recommended to sow seeds in the spring, after the risk of frost has passed. In these cooler climates, tomatoes should be grown undercover or in a sheltered spot. To get a head start on the season, sow seeds indoors in late winter and transplant them into pots or garden beds once the temperature is above 15°C and the risk of frost has passed.
Tomatoes love warmth and full sun, so choose a bright, sunny spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of sun a day and has good air circulation. They grow well in pots, troughs, hanging baskets, and raised garden beds, as well as in the ground. Grow tomatoes in well-drained soil, and water them regularly to keep the soil moist but not wet. Protect your tomatoes from blight and insects, and provide a support system such as stakes or a trellis, especially for taller varieties.
Tomatoes are typically ready to harvest 10 to 12 weeks after planting, when the fruit is plump and bright red or yellow, depending on the variety.
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Harvesting tomatoes
Tomatoes are at their happiest when watered at regular intervals, protected from various ailments, and supported by the right type of trellis or support system. They are suited to a temperate climate and require a bright, sunny spot with lots of air circulation. They can be grown in all climates, from tropical to subtropical and temperate, but will require different treatments.
In tropical and subtropical climates, tomatoes can be grown all year round and are best harvested in the dry season (autumn and winter). In temperate, cool, and cold climates, sow from spring. To get a head start on the season, sow seeds indoors in late winter and transplant them into pots or garden beds once the risk of frost has passed. Wait until seedlings are at least 5 cm tall before transplanting.
Tomatoes should be grown in shelter or under cover in cool climates. They love warmth and grow best during spring and summer. They can be grown in pots, troughs, or even hanging baskets. The best time to plant is around October, when the soil temperature reaches 15°C after the last frost. This is usually in late September and early October.
Tomatoes are typically ready to harvest 8-17 weeks after planting, or 10-12 weeks depending on the climate and variety. You will know they are ready when the fruit is plump and bright red or yellow, depending on the variety. Harvest your tomatoes by gently holding the fruit in one hand and twisting until the vine snaps. You can also use garden snips, especially if you want to ensure a clean cut and minimise damage to the plant. The stalk should remain attached.
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Frequently asked questions
Tomatoes can be grown in all climate zones in Australia. In tropical and subtropical climates, they can be grown all year round but are best in autumn and winter. In temperate, cool and cold climates, sow from spring.
Tomatoes are easy to grow but they don't like the cold. They love warmth and full sun to develop tasty fruit, so choose a bright, sunny spot in your garden or on your balcony that receives at least six hours of sun a day. Keep the soil moist and well-drained. Water with seaweed solution and don't overfeed.
Tomatoes can be susceptible to blight and insects. They also don't do well in frost, so it is best to wait until morning frosts are over before planting.
