Literally hundreds of varieties are available through seed catalogs and nurseries. There are countless varieties of tomatoes available, each of which differs from the others in taste, the size, shape and ripening time of the fruit, as well as in the plant's disease resistance. To get an idea of what's out there, check out print and online seed catalogs.
Local nurseries offer an ever-expanding array of tomatoes.
When deciding what to grow, choose varieties proven to perform well in your area. Talk to neighbors and check with your extension service to learn the local favorites. And, if you're a novice grower, choose at least a few varieties designated as All-America Selections winners. This nonprofit group tests new varieties all across the country and awards only those with outstanding growth and flavor. Their logo appears with plant descriptions in most catalogs.