As summer approaches, tomato enthusiasts are gearing up for a bountiful harvest of some of the season’s most acclaimed varieties. Renowned for their flavor, productivity, and versatility, five distinct types have emerged as favorites among home gardeners and growers alike.

Among the top contenders is the beefsteak tomato, a hybrid introduced in 1949 by the Burpee Seed Company. Known for its robust productivity, the beefsteak produces consistently large, aromatic fruits weighing between 10 and 12 ounces. These tomatoes typically mature about 78 days after planting, making them a reliable choice for summer growers seeking substantial yields.

Another popular variety is the Sungold cherry tomato, which boasts a dedicated following among tomato aficionados. These petite, orange tomatoes are prized for their exceptionally sweet, low-acid flavor. Although they are prone to splitting and thus rarely appear in grocery stores, they can often be found at farmers markets or grown in home gardens. Sungold tomatoes reach maturity roughly 60 to 65 days after planting and are ideal for salads, crudité platters, or as a fresh snack.

Heirloom tomatoes also feature prominently on the list, with the Brandywine standing out for both its size and taste. Dating back to the late 1800s, Brandywines produce large, juicy fruits with potato-like foliage. The tomatoes are typically pinkish-red and can measure 6 to 7 inches across, weighing close to a pound each. Their size and rich flavor make them optimal for sandwiches, and pink-fruited variants add a colorful twist.

Bull’s hearts, also known as oxhearts, are another heirloom favorite cherished for their large, heart-shaped fruit and low seed content. Originating from regions like Italy’s Amalfi Coast and known locally as cuore di bue or coeur de boeuf in France, these tomatoes deliver meaty, fragrant fruits. They are particularly well-suited for salads, sandwiches, and culinary applications such as sauces and pastes, thanks to their relatively low water content. Harvest time for bull’s hearts averages around 80 days from planting.

A more recent addition appreciated by gardeners is the Rutgers tomato, a hybrid developed in collaboration between Rutgers University and the Campbell Soup Company in 1934. These bright red, round “slicer” tomatoes weigh between 4 and 6 ounces and are notable for their rich flavor and firm texture. Unique among hybrids, Rutgers seeds can be saved and replanted, similar to heirlooms. Gardeners can expect to start picking these tomatoes approximately 75 days after planting.

For those seeking a classic choice with supermarket appeal but superior taste, Big Boy tomatoes offer a satisfying alternative. Though often overlooked due to their familiar appearance, they deliver a flavor that often surpasses expectations.

All five varieties require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day and about one to one and a half inches of water weekly to thrive. The combination of these conditions and attentive care ensures a successful and flavorful summer tomato harvest for gardeners in a variety of growing zones.