Should I Grow Tomatoes Vine Style or Bush Style?

When deciding how to grow your tomatoes, one of the key considerations is whether to opt for a vine or bush style. This choice can greatly affect the yield, flavor, and overall ease of care. In this article, we will explore the advantages of each method and provide practical tips for successful tomato cultivation.

Understanding Tomato Growth Styles

First, let's clarify the terms vine style and bush style. While both terms refer to tomato growth, they have slightly different meanings. Most tomato plants actually do grow on vines, so the primary distinction lies in the support and growth habits.

Determinate Bush Tomatoes: These tomatoes reach a certain height, usually around 3-5 feet, stop growing, and then initiate flowering and fruiting. They are known for producing a concentrated harvest over a short period.
Indeterminate Vine Tomatoes: These tomatoes continue to grow and produce fruit until the first frost. They can grow quite tall, often needing support.

Support Systems and Growing Methods

Support Systems: Regardless of whether you choose bush or vine style, supporting tomatoes can be necessary. Common methods include cages, stakes, and trellises. Cages are often easier to manage and provide support to multiple plants at once. However, they need to be sturdy to last several seasons.

Home-Made Cage Construction: To build a sturdy cage for your tomatoes, consider using concrete reinforcing wire. An 42 inch x 7 foot size with 5-6 inch squares provides a strong, reusable cage that measures 24 inches in diameter. This setup not only supports the tomato plants but can also be repurposed for future growing seasons.

Personal Experiences and Tips

Shane, a seasoned gardener, recalls a unique setup he used for his tomatoes. He constructed an 'A' frame in a raised bed covered in red plastic, with the bed measuring 32 feet long and about 12 inches high. The tomato plants sprawled for 15 feet along the length of the bed. While this method worked, he found that growing in cages was more manageable as he could devote more individual attention to each plant.

Other gardeners may prefer a trellis system, where tomatoes are trained to grow vertically along a structure. This not only provides support but also improves air circulation and light exposure, reducing the risk of disease. Another method is using a cast iron Victorian fence, which Shane used to attach his cages to, enhancing both aesthetic and practical appeal.

Taste and Satisfaction

One of the intangible benefits of growing your own tomatoes is the satisfaction and possibly the enhanced flavor. Numerous studies and personal experiences suggest that home-grown tomatoes, whether bush or vine style, often have a superior taste compared to store-bought ones.

The Psychological Aspect: Some people attribute the improved taste to the psychological benefits of having grown the fruit themselves. There is a sense of accomplishment and pride in eating something you have nurtured from seed to harvest.

Choosing Your Method: Ultimately, the decision between vine and bush style comes down to space, personal preference, and the specific needs of your garden. Whether you choose to grow bush style or vine style, proper support and care will ensure a bountiful and flavorful harvest.