Indeterminate vs. Determinate: Sun Sugar Tomato Insights

The Sun Sugar tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum ‘Sun Sugar’) is a delightful variety that stands out in the tomato world due to its unique sweet flavor. These small, golden-yellow cherry tomatoes are undeniably captivating and are considered the best among their cherry tomato counterparts. Here’s what you need to know about growing and caring for Sun Sugar tomatoes:

Growing Sun-Sugar Tomatoes

1. Planting Time and Method:
   • You have two options: sowing seeds or using ready-made seedlings.
   • If sowing seeds, start 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant them indoors in a well-draining potting mix.
   • Transplant seedlings into your garden once true leaves develop and the last frost has passed.
   • If using seedlings, plant them deep in nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8.
2. Spacing and Abundance:
   • Space Sun Sugar tomato plants at least 24 inches apart in your garden.
   • These plants are prolific fruit producers, with each plant yielding hundreds of sweet, tiny tomatoes.
3. Soil Nutrients:
   • While Sun Sugar tomatoes can grow in most soil types, they thrive when provided with essential nutrients.
   • Test your soil to determine its quality and nutrient needs.
   • Ensure your garden soil supports the production of flavorful fruits.

Determinate or indeterminate?

Now, let’s address the crucial question: Are Sun Sugar tomatoes determinate or indeterminate?

• Sun Sugar tomatoes are indeterminate. This means they continue to grow upward throughout the growing season until a killing frost occurs.
• To support their vigorous growth, staking the plants is essential. Without proper support, the vines may become unruly, leading to lost fruit toward the end of the season

How Long Does It Take for Sun Sugar Tomatoes to Mature?

Sun Sugar tomatoes (Lycopersicon lycopersicum ‘Sun Sugar’) are a delightful addition to any garden. These golden-yellow cherry tomatoes are known for their exceptionally sweet flavor. Let’s dive into the details of their maturation:

• Planting Time and Method:
  • You can either sow Sun Sugar tomato seeds or use ready-made seedlings.
  • If sowing seeds, start 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant them indoors in a well-draining potting mix.
  • Transplant seedlings into your outdoor garden once true leaves develop and the last frost has passed.
• Harvest Timeline:
  • Sun Sugar tomatoes typically take about 65 days from transplanting the seedlings into the garden until the first tomatoes ripen.
  • The harvest season for Sun Sugar plants generally lasts about 12–14 weeks.
  • Well-supported plants can produce hundreds of these sweet mini-tomatoes during the season.

So, if you’re eagerly awaiting those juicy, golden fruits, mark your calendar for approximately 65 days after planting.

How Long Does It Take for Sun Sugar Tomato Seeds to Germinate?

Sun Sugar tomato seeds typically take 5 to 10 days to germinate. For successful germination, ensure the following optimal conditions:

1. Viable Seeds: Start with high-quality, viable seeds.
2. Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C and 27°C).
3. Moist Soil: Keep the soil consistently damp but not soggy.
4. Regular Watering: Ensure regular watering during the germination process.

Can I Grow Sun Sugar Tomatoes in a Container Garden?

Absolutely! You can successfully grow Sun Sugar tomatoes in a container garden. These sweet, golden-yellow cherry tomatoes thrive in containers, and here’s how you can do it:

1. Container Selection:
   • Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide to provide ample space for the tomato plant’s roots.
   • Opt for a 10-gallon container at the minimum. Larger containers, such as grow bags or half whiskey barrels, work excellently.
2. Potting Mix and Drainage:
   • Use a high-quality potting mix specifically designed for container gardening.
   • Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
3. Planting Sun Sugar Tomato Seedlings:
   • Start by growing Sun Sugar tomato seedlings in small containers before introducing them into the final container or garden.
   • Time your growing season to match the last expected frost date.
   • Sow the seeds indoors about eight weeks before transplanting.
   • Use a well-draining potting mix for the seedlings.
   • Introduce the seedlings to the container garden one to two weeks after the last frost.
4. Sunlight and location:
   • Place the container in a sunny spot where the tomato plant receives at least 6–8 hours of sunlight per day.
   • Ensure the location is sheltered from strong winds.
5. Watering and Care:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
   • Regularly check the moisture level and adjust the watering accordingly.
   • Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.
6. Support and pruning:
   • Sun Sugar tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to grow throughout the season.
   • Provide support using a sturdy tomato cage or a tomato stake.
   • Prune any excessive growth to maintain a manageable size and encourage fruit production.

How Do I Know When to Harvest My Sun Sugar Tomatoes?

Harvesting Sun Sugar tomatoes at the perfect moment ensures you enjoy their sweet, sun-kissed flavor. Let’s explore the signs that indicate your golden beauties are ready for picking:

1. Color and texture:
   • Sun Sugar tomatoes are best left on the vine to ripen fully.
   • When they reach a deep yellow color, they are ready.
   • Gently squeeze the tomatoes; they should give slightly when pressed.
   • Avoid picking them when they are still green or pale yellow.
2. Firmness:
   • When you squeeze them, the tomatoes should be firm to the touch.
   • If they feel too soft, they might be overripe.
3. Harvest Technique:
   • Twist the tomato gently off the vine; it should come off easily.
   • Use a sharp knife to cut the tomatoes from the plant if needed.
4. Post-Harvest Ripening:
   • Sun Sugar tomatoes continue to ripen after picking.
   • Keep the stem and cap on the tomato until you’re ready to eat it.
   • Allow them to ripen further indoors if needed.

 

20 frequently asked questions (FAQ) For Sun Sugar Tomatoes

Q: What are Sun Sugar tomatoes?

• • Sun-sugar tomatoes are a type of cherry tomato prized for their exceptional sweetness. These small, round fruits are a beautiful golden yellow color when ripe ¹.

Q: Can I grow Sun Sugar tomatoes in containers?

• • A: Yes! Sun Sugar tomatoes thrive in containers. Choose a container at least 12 inches wide, use well-draining soil, and provide full sun.

Q: How long does it take for Sun Sugar tomato seeds to germinate?

• • A: Sun Sugar tomato seeds typically take 5 to 10 days to germinate. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth for successful sprouting.

Q: Are Sun Sugar tomatoes determinate or indeterminate?

• • A: Sun Sugar tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to grow and produce fruit until frost.

Q: What’s the best fertilizer for Sun Sugar tomatoes?

• • A: Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. Apply every two weeks during active growth.

Q: How do I know when to harvest Sun Sugar tomatoes?

• • A: Harvest when the tomatoes are deep yellow, slightly soft, and fully ripe. Cut them from the plant with a sharp knife.

Q: How big do Sun Sugar tomato plants get?

• • A: Sun Sugar tomato plants can reach about 4 to 6 feet in height.

Q: Can I grow Sun Sugar tomatoes from seeds?

• • A: Yes, start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors once true leaves develop.

Q: Are Sun Sugar tomatoes resistant to diseases?

• • They are resistant to fusarium wilt and tomato mosaic virus.

Q: How many Sun Sugar tomatoes can one plant produce?

• • It’s not uncommon for a single plant to yield hundreds of these sweet mini tomatoes.

Q: What’s the flavor profile of Sun Sugar tomatoes?

• • A: Sun-sugar tomatoes have a very sweet flavor with fruity notes.

Q: Can I grow Sun Sugar tomatoes in partial shade?

• • A: They thrive in partial to full sun.

Q: Do Sun Sugar tomatoes split easily when ripe?

A: No, they have robust fruit that won’t split when fully ripe.

Q: How do I support Sun Sugar tomato plants?

• • A: Stake or cage the plants to support their vigorous growth.

Q: What’s the ideal pH for Sun Sugar tomato soil?

• • A: Aim for a pH between 6.2 and 6.8.

Q: Can I grow Sun Sugar tomatoes in hanging baskets?

• • A: Yes, as long as the basket is large enough and receives sufficient sunlight.

Q: Are Sun Sugar tomatoes good for snacking?

• • A: Absolutely! Their sweet flavor makes them perfect for snacking.

Q: How many days from transplanting to ripe tomatoes?

• • A: Sun Sugar tomatoes take about 65 days from transplanting to the first ripe fruit.

Q: Can I save Sun Sugar tomato seeds for next year?

• • A: Yes, allow some fruits to fully ripen, scoop out the seeds, and dry them for future planting.

Q: Are Sun Sugar tomatoes resistant to pests?

• • A: While not immune, they are relatively resistant to certain pests