- A plant's maturity date measures the length of time it takes to get from seedling to fruit production. Tomato plants range from quick maturity dates to very long dates, up to 85 days. Tomatoes with long maturity dates require longer growing seasons.
- The quickest tomato cultivars belong to the "first-early" group. These tomatoes all grow to maturity in 60 days or less. The group includes Sub Arctic Plenty (45 days), Early Girl (54 days), Early Cascade (55 days) and Quick Pick (60 days). These tomatoes work well for gardeners with short summer seasons or those planting at the end of summer.
- Dwarf, container and cherry tomato cultivars maintain smaller statures and take less time to grow to maturity. These cultivars include Tiny Tim (45 days), Cherry Gold (45 days), Pixie Hybrid II (52 days) and Yellow Canary (55 days). Grow these tomato cultivars indoors or in outdoor pots and containers for a quick, easy harvest in the off-season.
- All tomatoes grow more quickly -- and successfully -- in warm, bright weather, with rich soil and good nutrition. Help your tomatoes to a quicker harvest with warm mid-spring plantings in sunny locations. Amend soil with rich organic compost at planting to give tomatoes nutritious, supportive foundations. Water the plants with 2 inches of water every week to keep them growing and productive, and use stakes or trellis systems for support during growth.
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