Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

Everglades Tomato (Solanum pimpinellifolium):

• Fruiting Season: Year-round with peak production from early spring through late fall.

• Pollination: Self-pollinating.

• Best Pollinators: Not applicable as it is self-pollinating.

• Planting Zone Range: 9-11

• Description: A wild variety known for its vigorous growth and prolific nature, producing small, cherry-sized, flavorful fruits. Ideal for Florida’s warm climate due to its adaptability and continuous fruit production.

Other Tomato Varieties Suitable for Florida:

Sweet Million (Cherry Tomato):

• Fruiting Season: Early summer to fall.

• Pollination: Self-pollinating.

• Best Pollinators: Not needed, but can benefit from general insect pollination.

• Planting Zone Range: 9-11

• Description: Produces abundant clusters of sweet, small cherry tomatoes. Known for its disease resistance and high yields, perfect for extended harvesting.

Solar Fire:

• Fruiting Season: Summer.

• Pollination: Self-pollinating.

• Best Pollinators: Not required, but benefits from insect activity.

• Planting Zone Range: 9-11

• Description: A heat-tolerant variety bred for hot, humid climates like Florida. Continues to set fruit even under high temperatures.

Cherokee Purple (Heirloom Tomato):

• Fruiting Season: Mid-summer to early fall.

• Pollination: Self-pollinating.

• Best Pollinators: Not required but benefits from insects.

• Planting Zone Range: 9-11

• Description: Offers large, beefsteak-style tomatoes with a unique purple-red color. Valued for its rich, sweet flavor.

Florida 91 :

• Fruiting Season: Summer.

• Pollination: Self-pollinating.

• Best Pollinators: Not needed but can benefit from general insect pollination.

• Planting Zone Range: 9-11

• Description: The Florida 91 tomato, akin to a beefsteak in size and juiciness, was meticulously developed by the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) to excel in the state's challenging climate. This robust variety not only stands up to Florida's heat and humidity but also boasts resistance to common tomato diseases, ensuring consistent, substantial yields perfect for slicing and fresh consumption. The development of Florida 91 is a testament to IFAS's dedication to tailoring cultivars that meet Florida's specific agricultural needs, focusing on disease resistance, heat tolerance, and enhanced productivity to flourish in its unique environment.

These carefully selected tomato varieties offer a robust range of options for gardeners in Florida, each uniquely adapted to thrive in the warm and humid conditions. From the wild and prolific Everglades Tomato to the robust and heat-resistant Solar Fire, these varieties ensure a fruitful garden with minimal need for cross-pollination. Whether you prefer the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes or the rich depth of an heirloom like Cherokee Purple, there's a tomato for every palate. Additionally, the Florida 91 stands out as a particularly resilient choice, bred specifically to meet the challenges of Florida's unique climate while providing consistent and bountiful yields. Planting these varieties will not only enhance your gardening experience but also contribute to a sustainable and productive home garden, bringing fresh flavors right to your table throughout the growing season.

For Solanum pimpinellifolium, the Everglades Tomato, here are some companion plants that are both Florida Native and Florida Friendly. These plants can help enhance the growth of your tomatoes by attracting beneficial insects, improving soil health, or providing shade and support:

Florida Native Plants

1. Marigold (Tagetes spp.)

   • Zone Range: 2-11

   • Benefits: Marigolds are known for their ability to repel nematodes and other pests that can affect tomatoes. Their bright flowers also attract pollinators and beneficial insects.

   • Use: Plant around the base of your tomato plants to create a protective and attractive barrier.

2. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

   • Zone Range: 2-11

   • Benefits: Sunflowers can attract beneficial insects that prey on common pests of tomatoes. They also provide some shade and support, helping to keep the soil moist and cool.

   • Use: Plant sunflowers along the north side of your tomato plants to avoid shading them too much.

3. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

   • Zone Range: 9-10 (as an annual)

   • Benefits: Basil is reputed to improve the flavor of tomatoes when planted nearby and can also repel flies and mosquitoes.

   • Use: Plant basil between tomato plants to maximize garden space and enhance the tomato flavor.

Florida Friendly Plants

1. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

   • Zone Range: 9-11 (as an annual)

   • Benefits: Nasturtiums are a trap crop for aphids, drawing these pests away from tomatoes. Their edible flowers also add beauty to the garden.

   • Use: Plant nasturtiums along the edges of your tomato planting area.

2. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

   • Zone Range: 3-12

   • Benefits: Chives can help prevent aphid infestations and are believed to enhance the flavor and growth of tomato plants.

   • Use: Plant chives around the perimeter of your tomato plants as a border.

3. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

   • Zone Range: 5-9

   • Benefits: Parsley can attract hoverflies, which are natural predators of common pests like aphids and caterpillars.

   • Use: Intersperse parsley among your tomatoes to create a dense ground cover that helps maintain soil moisture and attract beneficial insects.

These companion plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also contribute to a healthier, more productive tomato crop by improving pollination, deterring pests, and enhancing soil quality.