Choosing the Right Tomato Seeds in the UK - Just One Point of View
Why Choosing the Right Tomato Seeds Matters in the UK
Growing tomatoes in the UK presents unique challenges—shorter summers, variable rainfall, and cooler temperatures. Selecting the right tomato variety can make the difference between a bumper harvest and a disappointing yield.
This guide offers an up-to-date look at the top tomato seed varieties best suited for UK gardeners, whether you're planting in a greenhouse, polytunnel, patio container, or traditional garden bed.
Top 10 Tomato Seed Varieties for UK Growers
So much choice, here are a few examples…
1. Gardener’s Delight
Type: Cherry
Best for: Containers, greenhouses, outdoor beds
Flavour: Sweet and tangy
Why it's ideal: Reliable performance in the UK climate
2. Ailsa Craig
Type: Medium salad tomato
Best for: Greenhouse and outdoor growing
Flavour: Classic tomato taste
Advantage: Early-maturing, suitable for cooler UK summers
3. Shirley F1
Type: Hybrid salad tomato
Best for: Greenhouses
Yield: High, even in cooler temperatures
Disease resistance: Strong against common UK diseases
4. Tumbling Tom Red
Type: Cherry, trailing
Best for: Hanging baskets, patios
Growth habit: Compact and ornamental
Light requirements: Partial to full sun
5. Crimson Crush F1
Type: Blight-resistant hybrid
Best for: Outdoor beds in high-risk areas
Strength: Excellent resistance to blight
Performance: Consistent results in unpredictable UK summers
6. Black Russian
Type: Heirloom beefsteak
Flavour: Rich, smoky
Ideal for: Greenhouse cultivation and tomato enthusiasts
Note: Requires a warmer growing environment
7. Sub Arctic Plenty
Type: Bush/determinate
Known for: Early fruiting in cold climates
Best for: Northern UK regions and short seasons
Benefit: One of the earliest maturing tomatoes available
8. Roma VF
Type: Plum tomato
Best for: Cooking, sauces, preserving
Disease resistance: Resistant to Fusarium and Verticillium wilt
Shape: Firm and meaty with few seeds
9. Marmande
Type: Beefsteak
Needs: Warm, sheltered spot or greenhouse
Characteristics: Juicy, ribbed fruits
Popular for: Mediterranean-style cooking
10. Costoluto Fiorentino
Type: Heirloom beefsteak
Features: Deep ribbing, rich texture
Flavour: Full-bodied, perfect for slicing and salads
Cultural tip: Performs best with support and warmth
How to Choose the Right Tomato Variety for the UK
Check for the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM) for trusted varieties
Match the variety to your growing environment (outdoor, greenhouse, container)
Prioritise blight resistance if growing outdoors
Consider days to maturity based on your region (north vs south)
Choose determinate varieties for compact spaces, indeterminate for continuous harvests
What UK Gardeners Are Saying
“I grow Tumbling Tom in a small pot on my Manchester balcony—still get dozens of sweet tomatoes even in a wet summer.”
— Jess, urban gardener
“Crimson Crush has survived every bout of blight in my Devon garden. It’s a game-changer for outdoor growers.”
— Paul, hobbyist grower
“I always go back to Black Russian. The flavour is incredible, and it really stands out at summer gatherings.”
— Lydia, Kent-based greenhouse grower
Which Variety Should You Grow?
For small spaces or patios: Tumbling Tom, Gardener’s Delight
For greenhouse growers: Shirley F1, Black Russian, Marmande
For outdoor, blight-prone areas: Crimson Crush, Ailsa Craig
For sauces and preserving: Roma VF, Costoluto Fiorentino
For cooler northern climates: Sub Arctic Plenty
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tomato seed variety for the UK?
Crimson Crush F1 is considered one of the best outdoor tomato varieties due to its strong blight resistance and reliable yields.
When should I start tomato seeds in the UK?
Start seeds indoors between late February and early April. Transplant after the last frost in May.
Can tomatoes be grown outdoors in the UK?
Yes, especially if you choose hardy or blight-resistant varieties. Providing shelter and warmth increases success.
Do I need a greenhouse to grow tomatoes in the UK?
Not necessarily. Many varieties, like Ailsa Craig and Tumbling Tom, perform well outdoors. However, a greenhouse can extend the season and improve results.
