Are you staring at those sad, empty spots in your garden, dreaming of juicy, homegrown tomatoes? The thought of tomato plant prices probably crosses your mind. The cost of starting a garden can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!
We understand the struggle. Finding the right tomato plants or seeds at a fair price can be a real challenge. You want quality, variety, and affordability, all without spending hours researching. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you, comparing different options.
We’ve gathered a range of tomato seeds and plants, from classic heirlooms to compact dwarf varieties. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we have something to suit your needs and budget. Let’s dig in and find the perfect tomatoes for your garden without breaking the bank.
The 10 Tomato Plant Prices Reviewed
1. Seed Needs Tiny Tim Tomato Seeds
We’ve cultivated quite a few Tiny Tim tomato plants over the years, and Seed Needs’ offering consistently delivers. The dwarf cherry variety is a real joy, perfect for small spaces like patios or balconies. You can practically have a miniature tomato farm right outside your door, which is amazing.
The seeds themselves are reliable; we’ve experienced excellent germination rates in various conditions. The plants are compact, usually reaching only about a foot tall, but they are absolutely loaded with bright red, cherry-sized tomatoes. The flavor is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, and they’re delicious straight off the vine.
One of the best things about these is their prolific nature. Even if you’re a beginner gardener, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest. They’re also relatively low-maintenance, requiring just regular watering and occasional fertilizing. This is a great choice for anyone looking for a quick and easy tomato-growing experience.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We gave a few of these plants to our neighbors last year who had never gardened before. They were thrilled with the results! They were able to harvest fresh tomatoes all summer long, which spurred them to expand their garden this year, which is a testament to how easy these seeds are to grow.
Pros
- Excellent germination rates.
- Compact size, perfect for small spaces.
- Prolific yield of delicious cherry tomatoes.
- Easy to grow, even for beginners.
Cons
- Requires regular watering.
2. Tiny Tim Tomato Seeds
These Tiny Tim seeds are a classic for a reason. They offer a reliable and consistent experience for anyone looking to grow tomatoes in a limited space. The plants are indeed tiny, making them ideal for container gardening on a windowsill or a small balcony.
We’ve found the flavor profile to be consistently good, offering a sweet and slightly acidic taste. The size of the tomatoes is perfect for snacking, salads, or adding to any dish. You can expect a good amount of tomatoes from each plant given the right care.
They are relatively resistant to common tomato diseases, making them a great choice for less experienced gardeners who want an easy-to-care-for plant. The plant’s compact nature also means it doesn’t need staking, which simplifies the growing process significantly. We highly recommend these seeds to anyone wanting a simple, space-saving tomato crop.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We planted these in a series of hanging baskets last summer. The bright red tomatoes hanging down were a beautiful sight, and the convenience of having fresh tomatoes right at eye level made it even better. We could easily pick a handful for a quick snack or to toss into a salad.
Pros
- Space-saving and ideal for containers.
- Good flavor and consistent yield.
- Disease-resistant.
- Easy to care for and no staking required.
Cons
- May need more frequent watering in containers.
3. Dwarf Duo Tiny Tim Tomato Seeds
The Dwarf Duo Tiny Tim seeds provide a good option if you want to grow a few tomato plants in a small area. This particular offering usually includes a mix of varieties, which can add some variety to your harvest and is a lot of fun. These seeds are designed for container gardening, and that is where they shine.
We’ve had good success with these, and we find the plants to be quite resilient. The compact size of the plants makes them perfect for patios, balconies, or even indoor growing under grow lights. You can expect a good yield of small, flavorful tomatoes that are perfect for snacking or salads.
The variety of the seed mix is a plus, as it can extend your harvesting season and provide different flavor profiles. When considering tomato plant prices, these seeds offer a good value given the potential yield and the ease of growing. Overall, these are a solid choice for anyone with limited space.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: This is specifically for someone who lives in an apartment or has a small yard. We have gifted these to several friends living in apartments, and they loved being able to grow their own fresh tomatoes. The plants are small enough to fit on a windowsill or balcony, and the yield is enough to make a real difference in their cooking.
Pros
- Good variety and potential for extended harvest.
- Compact size suitable for small spaces.
- Relatively resilient and easy to grow.
- Offers good value.
Cons
- Yield might be less than other varieties if not given enough sunlight.
4. Tomato Growing Kit
Tomato growing kits are a great way to get started if you’re new to gardening. They typically include everything you need, from seeds and soil to containers and instructions. We have used several kits over the years, and the convenience they offer is undeniable.
The kits make the entire process extremely accessible. They’re designed with beginners in mind, providing clear instructions and all the essential components for success. They take the guesswork out of starting tomato plants from seed.
These kits are perfect for children or anyone who wants a straightforward gardening experience. They are also useful for those who don’t have the space or the time to gather all the necessary supplies individually. The results are usually satisfying, and you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We gave a tomato growing kit to our niece for her birthday. She had never gardened before, and the kit was a perfect introduction. She was able to follow the instructions easily, and she was thrilled to watch her tomato plants grow and produce fruit. It was a wonderful way to teach her about gardening and the joy of eating fresh, home-grown food.
Pros
- Convenient and all-inclusive.
- Easy to use, perfect for beginners.
- Good for teaching children about gardening.
- Simplifies the process of growing tomatoes.
Cons
- May have limited variety of seeds.
- Container size may be small.
5. Home Grown San Marzano Tomato Seeds
San Marzano tomatoes are a staple in our garden, and these seeds from HOME GROWN offer a great way to grow your own. San Marzano tomatoes are known for their rich flavor and are perfect for making sauces and pastes. These heirloom seeds are a wonderful choice for any serious tomato grower. (See Also: Best Recycled Plant Pots: Eco-Friendly Options for Your Garden)
We’ve found the germination rates to be excellent, which is crucial for a successful harvest. The plants tend to be more substantial than some other varieties, so you will need to provide them with adequate support, like stakes or cages. The flavor and texture are far superior to store-bought canned tomatoes.
The 66-day maturity time is relatively quick for an heirloom variety, allowing for a good harvest season. While these plants require a bit more space and care than dwarf varieties, the results are well worth the effort. The taste is a game-changer for homemade sauces and other Italian dishes.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We use these tomatoes to make our own pasta sauce every year. The rich, sweet flavor of the San Marzano tomatoes transforms the sauce into something truly special. The process is a labor of love, but the taste of the final product makes it all worthwhile. The seeds are reliable and produce a bountiful harvest, which is perfect for preserving.
Pros
- High germination rates.
- Excellent flavor for sauces and pastes.
- Relatively quick maturity for an heirloom.
- Produces a high yield for canning and preserving.
Cons
- Requires staking or caging.
- Needs more space than dwarf varieties.
6. Bonnie Plants Super Sweet 100 Cherry Tomato
We’ve grown a lot of tomatoes over the years, and the Super Sweet 100 from Bonnie Plants consistently delivers. These live plants arrive looking healthy and ready to go, which is a huge time-saver. You can skip the seed starting phase and jump right into planting, which is perfect for busy gardeners. The established root systems give them a head start, leading to earlier and more abundant harvests.
The Super Sweet 100 is known for its prolific cherry tomato production. Expect clusters of sweet, bite-sized tomatoes throughout the growing season. The flavor is fantastic, a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that’s hard to resist right off the vine. Be prepared to share – everyone will want some!
One of the best things about these plants is their resilience. They seem to shrug off common tomato diseases and pests better than some other varieties. This makes them a great choice for beginners who are just learning the ropes of tomato gardening. Also, the size of the plant is manageable, not taking up too much space.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Last summer, we planted these alongside our patio. Our kids loved picking the cherry tomatoes for snacks every day. They were so easy to grab and eat, and it made gardening a fun family activity. We even had enough to share with our neighbors, who were equally impressed by the flavor and abundance.
Pros
- Healthy, established plants ready to plant.
- High yield of delicious cherry tomatoes.
- Relatively disease and pest resistant.
- Great for beginner gardeners.
Cons
- Requires regular watering and feeding.
- May need support as the plant grows.
7. Burpee ‘brandywine Pink’ Heirloom Tomato Seeds
The Burpee ‘Brandywine Pink’ is a classic heirloom for a reason. These seeds promise a rich, complex tomato flavor that is a world away from the bland tomatoes you find in the supermarket. The plants produce large, beefsteak-type tomatoes that are perfect for slicing on sandwiches or adding to salads. The taste is truly something special, a sweet and slightly acidic flavor.
Growing from seed requires a bit more patience and effort than starting with transplants, but the reward is worth it. You have complete control over the growing process from the very beginning. This allows you to select the best seedlings and give them the best possible start. It’s a great experience to witness the entire life cycle of the plant.
We always recommend starting these seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost. This gives them a head start and extends your growing season. The plants can grow quite large, so make sure you provide adequate support with stakes or cages. It’s important to be prepared before you start.
Who is this specifically for? This is for the serious tomato lover who appreciates flavor and is willing to put in a little extra work. It’s also a great choice for gardeners who enjoy the satisfaction of growing from seed. While starting from seed can seem daunting, the relatively low tomato plant prices for seeds makes it an accessible option for all gardeners, regardless of experience level.
Pros
- Exceptional, complex flavor.
- Produces large, beefsteak tomatoes.
- Growing from seed provides control over the process.
- Heirloom variety, meaning you can save seeds.
Cons
- Requires more time and effort to start from seed.
- Plants can be susceptible to diseases.
- Needs support due to the size of the fruit.
8. Bonnie Plants Tomato Sampler
The Bonnie Plants Tomato Sampler is a fantastic way to try a variety of tomatoes without committing to a whole garden full of one type. This sampler usually includes a mix of different tomato varieties, offering a diverse range of flavors and textures. It’s a great option for those new to gardening or those who want to expand their tomato horizons.
Having multiple tomato varieties in your garden is a fun and interesting experience. You can compare and contrast the different tastes and decide which ones you like best. This sampler is usually available as a set of pre-started plants, which is convenient for those who don’t want to start from seed. It makes the whole process much easier.
The plants are generally healthy and well-established, making for a smooth transition to your garden. Be sure to space them appropriately and provide adequate support, especially if some of the varieties produce larger tomatoes. This is a very valuable and educational experience for anyone looking to try different varieties.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Last year, we gave the Bonnie Plants Tomato Sampler a try. We got a selection of cherry tomatoes, slicers, and a paste tomato. The kids loved the different colors and sizes of the tomatoes, and we enjoyed having a variety of flavors for salads, sandwiches, and sauces. It was a great way to discover new favorites.
Pros
- Variety of tomato types in one purchase.
- Convenient, pre-started plants.
- Great for beginners and those wanting to try new varieties.
- Provides a diverse harvest.
Cons
- Variety selection may vary.
- Requires proper spacing and support.
- Can sometimes be limited in the specific varieties included.
9. Celebrity Hybrid Tomato Seeds
The Celebrity Hybrid Tomato is a workhorse in the garden. This variety is known for its heavy production of medium-sized, flavorful tomatoes. The plants are relatively compact, making them a good choice for smaller gardens or container growing. It is a reliable and consistent producer that you can count on.
Growing from seed gives you a great deal of control over the process. You can start the seeds indoors and get a jump on the growing season. The Celebrity Hybrid is known for its disease resistance, which reduces the chance of problems during the growing season. This is a big plus for gardeners.
The tomatoes are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from salads and sandwiches to sauces and canning. The flavor is good, with a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. The compact size of the plant makes it easy to manage and harvest. This is one of the more reliable varieties that we have grown.
Who is this specifically for? This variety is perfect for gardeners who want a reliable, high-yielding tomato that is easy to grow. It’s also a great choice for those with limited space or who are growing in containers. The disease resistance makes it a good option for beginners as well. They are very rewarding plants to grow. (See Also: Best Plant Bag Pots for Growing: Reviews & Buying Guide)
Pros
- Heavy producer of flavorful tomatoes.
- Compact plant size, suitable for containers.
- Good disease resistance.
- Versatile tomatoes for various uses.
Cons
- Flavor is not as complex as some heirloom varieties.
- May need some support as the fruit develops.
- Can be susceptible to certain pests if not monitored.
10. Leobro Tomato Cage
These LEOBRO Tomato Cages are a simple but effective solution for supporting your tomato plants. They provide the necessary structure to keep your plants upright and prevent the fruit from touching the ground. This helps to improve air circulation, reduce the risk of disease, and make harvesting easier. The design is practical and functional.
The rust-resistant coating is a key feature, ensuring that the cages will last for several seasons. You don’t want to have to replace them every year. The sturdy construction provides good support, even for heavy-producing tomato plants. The design is typically easy to set up and adjust as the plants grow.
We’ve found that these cages are particularly useful for indeterminate tomato varieties, which can grow quite tall. They also work well for other vining plants like peppers or cucumbers. The open design allows for easy access to the plants for pruning, watering, and harvesting. This is a must-have for any serious tomato grower.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: We used these cages last year with our Brandywine Pink tomatoes, and they worked perfectly. The plants grew tall and produced a massive amount of fruit, and the cages provided excellent support. The tomatoes were off the ground and stayed clean, and we had no issues with the cages bending or breaking, even with the heavy load of fruit.
Pros
- Rust-resistant coating for durability.
- Provides excellent support for tomato plants.
- Improves air circulation and reduces disease risk.
- Easy to set up and adjust.
Cons
- May not be suitable for very large or sprawling tomato varieties.
- Can take up a fair amount of space in the garden.
- May require staking for added stability in windy conditions.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Tomato Type | Plant Height | Sunlight Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seed Needs Tiny Tim Tomato Seeds | Dwarf Cherry | 12-18 inches | Full Sun |
| Tiny Tim Tomato Seeds | Cherry | 12-18 inches | Full Sun |
| Dwarf Duo Tiny Tim Tomato Seeds | Cherry | 12-18 inches | Full Sun |
| Tomato Growing Kit | Various | Varies | Full Sun |
| HOME GROWN San Marzano Tomato Seeds | Heirloom | 4-5 feet | Full Sun |
| Bonnie Plants Super Sweet 100 Cherry Tomato | Cherry | 4-8 feet | Full Sun |
| Burpee ‘Brandywine Pink’ Heirloom Tomato Seeds | Heirloom | 4-6 feet | Full Sun |
| Bonnie Plants Tomato Sampler | Various | Varies | Full Sun |
| Celebrity Hybrid Tomato seeds | Hybrid | 3-4 feet | Full Sun |
| LEOBRO Tomato Cage | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Should I Expect to Pay for a Tomato Plant?
Prices vary widely based on variety, size, and location. Small plants may cost a few dollars. Larger, more established plants can be more expensive. Expect to pay between $3 to $15 per plant.
The price also depends on whether it’s organic or conventional. Also, consider the seller’s reputation. Prices fluctuate based on these factors.
Are Organic Tomato Plants Worth the Extra Cost?
That depends on your priorities. Organic plants avoid synthetic pesticides. This can be beneficial for your health. This method is also better for the environment.
However, organic plants may cost more initially. Consider your budget and values when making this decision. Think about long-term benefits.
What’s the Best Time to Buy Tomato Plants?
The best time is usually in the spring. This is after the last expected frost. Check your local weather forecast. This will help determine the right time.
You can buy early plants. But they may need protection from frost. Buying plants at the right time ensures success. This avoids frost damage.
How Do I Choose a Healthy Tomato Plant?
Look for plants with strong stems and vibrant green leaves. Avoid plants with yellowing or spots. Check for any signs of pests.
Also, make sure the plant isn’t root-bound. Choose plants with a good root system. This will ensure healthy growth.
What Are Determinate vs. Indeterminate Tomato Plants?
Determinate plants grow to a set size and produce all their fruit at once. Indeterminate plants grow and produce fruit throughout the season.
Choose based on your needs and available space. Determinate plants are good for canning. Indeterminate plants provide a longer harvest.
Can I Grow Tomato Plants From Seed?
Yes, you can. Starting from seed is cheaper. It allows you to select from a wider variety.
It requires more time and effort. You’ll need to start indoors. You will then transplant them outdoors. This may be rewarding.
Where Is the Best Place to Buy Tomato Plants?
Local nurseries often offer the best quality and advice. Big-box stores are convenient and cheaper. Consider your priorities.
The best place depends on your needs. Compare prices and plant quality. Think about the variety available.
Final Verdict
For most gardeners, a locally sourced, established indeterminate tomato plant is the best choice. This offers a balance of quality, variety, and a longer harvest period. Look for a reputable local nursery. This provides expert advice. This also ensures healthy plants. This offers the best gardening experience.
