Best Tomato Seeds
Tomato is one of the most widely grown and consumed vegetables in the world, valued for its taste, versatility, and nutritional benefits. It is an essential ingredient in Indian kitchens and a profitable crop for farmers across regions.
At DesiKheti, we bring you premium-quality tomato seeds carefully selected to deliver high yield, vigorous plants, and consistent fruit quality.
We provide a wide range of hybrid tomato seeds in varied shapes, colours, and sizes suitable for different regions. From F1 hybrid tomato seeds to open-pollinated and heirloom tomato seeds, our extensive range ensures that you get the best tomato seeds in India, suited to your specific needs.
Buy premium-quality tomato seeds online at the best price only at DesiKheti.
Explore our tomato seeds collection below, place your order online, and get seeds delivered directly to your location.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the most popular and widely cultivated vegetables across the world. Tomato is believed to have originated in South America. Tomato belongs to the Solanaceae family, which also includes crops like chilli, brinjal, and potato. Over the years, tomatoes have become an integral part of cuisines across the globe due to their flavour, colour, and versatility.
Tomatoes are consumed in salads, curries, pickles, sauces, ketchup and more.Tomatoes enhance the flavour, colour, and texture of numerous dishes, adding a tangy and rich taste. They are used in cooking gravies, soups, stews, and pasta, and are a key ingredient in many dishes, offering both taste and nutritional value.
They are used in both raw and cooked forms — fresh in salads, sandwiches, and juices, or processed into pastes, purees, sauces, soups, and canned products. Tomatoes are also sun-dried, dehydrated, or powdered for extended shelf life.
Role of Tomato in Indian Cuisine
In Indian cooking, tomatoes are indispensable. They form the base for countless gravies, curries, chutneys, and masalas. From north Indian paneer and dal recipes to south Indian sambars and rasams, tomatoes lend a tangy flavour and vibrant colour that balances spices and enriches taste. They are also used in pickles, sauces, and soups, making them a daily essential in every Indian household. The versatility of tomatoes makes them a unifying ingredient across regional cuisines in India.
Role of Tomato in Global Cuisine
Globally, tomatoes are a key ingredient in Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, and American cuisines. They are used in pasta sauces, pizzas, salsas, soups, and salads. Tomato-based products like ketchup and sauces are staple condiments worldwide. In European dishes, tomatoes are often roasted or pureed, while in Latin American cooking, they form the base for salsas and sauces. Their universal appeal and adaptability have made tomatoes one of the most important vegetables in global diets.
Food Processing of Tomato
Tomatoes are extensively used in the food processing industry to produce a wide range of value-added products. These include tomato paste, puree, ketchup, juice, soup, sauce, powder, and canned tomatoes. Processing extends shelf life, reduces wastage during peak seasons, and provides farmers with a consistent market.
Non-Culinary Uses of Tomato
Beyond cooking, tomatoes have several non-culinary applications. They are used in cosmetics and skincare products due to their antioxidant properties and high lycopene content, which helps in skin brightening and protection from UV damage. Tomatoes are also used in traditional remedies, natural dyes, and as a source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
Tomato Farming
Tomatoes are in constant demand throughout the year due to their widespread culinary use and processing potential. Their short growing period and ability to thrive in diverse climates make them suitable for multiple cropping cycles annually.
Why tomato farming is profitable:
- Continuous market demand in both fresh and processing sectors
- High yield potential with improved hybrids
- Good returns even from small landholdings
- Strong export potential for quality produce
- Demand from food processing and hospitality industries
However, before starting tomato farming, it is important to decide which tomato variety to sow. A variety can be selected based on factors such as climate suitability, soil type, market demand, export potential, farming purpose, and more. Choosing the right tomato variety and planting tomato seeds correctly ensures high yield and better profits.
So first, let us know about the different tomato types.
Popular Tomato Types in India
1. Pusa Ruby Tomato
Pusa Ruby Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Delhi, is a hybrid tomato variety known for its bright red, medium-sized fruits with smooth skin. Maturing in 60–70 days, it thrives in both open-field and greenhouse cultivation, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Maharashtra. Pusa Ruby Tomato is ideal for salads, sauces, and cooking due to its high yield, disease resistance, good shelf-life, and transport quality.
2. Arka Saurabh Tomato
Arka Saurabh Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), developed by ICAR–CTCRI, Kerala, produces round, medium-sized, bright red fruits. Maturing in 65–70 days, it is resistant to major tomato diseases and widely grown in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. This hybrid variety is suitable for fresh consumption and cooking, offering high yield, disease tolerance, and excellent market demand.
3. Himsona Tomato
Himsona Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), developed in Himachal Pradesh, is a hardy variety suited for cooler climates, especially in hilly regions. The medium-sized, firm, bright red fruits mature in 70–75 days and are resistant to fungal diseases. Himsona Tomato is best used for fresh salads and tomato juice, offering long shelf-life and easy cultivation.
4. Roma Tomato
Roma Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), originally introduced from the USA and adapted in India, is an elongated, medium-sized, deep-red tomato with firm flesh. Widely grown in Karnataka,Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, Roma Tomato tomatoes have low water content, making them perfect for sauces, ketchup, and processing. This high-yield variety is firm, less prone to rotting, and commercially suitable.
5. Pusa Gaurav Tomato Tomato
Pusa Gaurav Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), developed by IARI, Delhi, produces medium-sized, round red fruits maturing in 65–70 days. Cultivated in Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha, this hybrid variety is preferred for its high yield, disease resistance, and excellent marketability. Pusa Gaurav Tomato is ideal for fresh consumption and cooking.
6. Sel-11 Tomato
Sel-11 Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a hybrid variety developed by IARI, Delhi, producing medium-sized, firm red tomatoes with good shelf-life. Grown in Maharashtra and Karnataka, it is resistant to leaf curl virus and suitable for salads, cooking, and transport. Sel-11 Tomato offers uniform fruits, high yield, and durability.
7. Arka Rakshak Tomato
Arka Rakshak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), developed by ICAR–CTCRI, Kerala, produces medium-sized, round red fruits maturing in 65–70 days. Cultivated in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, it is resistant to bacterial wilt and leaf curl virus. This hybrid variety is excellent for fresh consumption and processing, with high yield potential.
Popular Tomato Types in the World
1. Cherry Tomato
The Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme), originating from South America, is a small, round, and juicy variety known for its sweet flavor and bright red or yellow skin. These bite-sized tomatoes are perfect for salads, garnishes, and healthy snacks. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, cherry tomatoes add color, flavor, and nutrition to any meal while being easy to grow even in containers.
2. Roma Tomato Tomato (Plum Tomato)
The Roma Tomato Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Roma Tomato’) originated in Italy and is a favorite for making sauces, purees, and pastes. Oval in shape with thick flesh and fewer seeds, Roma Tomato tomatoes have a concentrated flavor and lower water content, making them ideal for cooking. They are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and their firm texture also makes them easy to store and transport.
3. Beefsteak Tomato
Beefsteak Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Beefsteak’), native to North America, are large, meaty, and juicy with a mild flavor. Their size makes them perfect for slicing in sandwiches, burgers, and salads. High in vitamins A and C, these tomatoes help boost immunity and hydration. Their versatility and flavor make them one of the most popular choices among gardeners and chefs worldwide.
4. Heirloom Tomato
The Heirloom Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Heirloom’), originating from the United States, is celebrated for its diverse shapes, colors, and exceptional flavor. These tomatoes are open-pollinated and passed down through generations, making them unique and rich in taste. Heirloom tomatoes can be red, purple, green, or even striped, offering not just beauty but also a high level of antioxidants and nutrients for healthy meals.
5. San Marzano Tomato
The San Marzano Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘San Marzano’), a classic Italian variety, is long, cylindrical, and slightly pointed. Grown in the fertile volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, it is prized for its sweet taste, low acidity, and few seeds. Known as the best tomato for pizza and pasta sauces, it provides a smooth texture and rich flavor that enhances authentic Italian dishes.
6. Grape Tomato
The Grape Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Grape’), originally from Southeast Asia, has a small, oval shape and firm skin. With a mildly sweet flavor and low water content, it is ideal for roasting, grilling, or adding to salads. These tomatoes last longer than most small varieties and are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and natural antioxidants, making them both healthy and convenient.
7. Green Zebra Tomato
The Green Zebra Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Green Zebra’), developed in the United States, stands out for its striking green color with yellow stripes. It offers a tangy and slightly tart flavor, which adds a gourmet touch to salads and fresh dishes. Apart from its visual appeal, Green Zebra tomatoes are rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestion and overall wellness.
8. Black Krim Tomato
The Black Krim Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Black Krim’), native to Crimea in Ukraine, is known for its dark reddish-purple skin and smoky, rich flavor. Juicy and slightly salty, this variety is perfect for salads, salsas, and open sandwiches. It thrives in warm climates and contains anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that promote heart and skin health, making it both delicious and nutritious.
Types of Tomato Seeds
Selecting the right tomato seeds is the first step toward achieving a healthy crop and a high yield. To make the best choice, it’s essential to understand the different types of tomato seeds available in the market. Broadly, tomato seeds can be categorized into the following types:
F1 Hybrid Tomato Seeds
F1 hybrid tomato seeds are generally developed by cross-breeding two carefully selected parent plants with desirable traits. These seeds produce plants that offer higher yields, uniform growth, and consistent fruit quality. They are ideal for commercial farmers who aim for maximum productivity.
Open-Pollinated (OP) Tomato Seeds
Open-pollinated tomato seeds are naturally pollinated through wind, insects, or other natural means. These seeds can be saved and reused for future planting while maintaining similar plant characteristics. They are cost-effective and best suited for small-scale farmers and home gardeners who prefer traditional and sustainable farming practices.
Popular Tomato Seed Brands
At DesiKheti, you can buy tomato seeds online from leading national and international brands trusted by farmers across India. We offer a diverse selection of high-quality tomato seeds for healthy plants, high yield, and superior fruit quality suitable for both commercial cultivators and home gardeners.
Our range includes tomato seeds from popular companies such as Advanta, Ankur Seeds, Ashoka Seeds, Bioseed, East West Seeds, Elite Seeds, Fito, HM Clause, Indo American Seeds, Indus Seeds, JK Seeds, Kalash, Kanakadhaara Seeds, Kaveri Seeds, Known You, Mahyco, Max Seeds, Namdhari Seeds, Nath Seeds, Noble Seeds, Nongwoo Seeds, Nunhems , Pan Seeds, PHS, Rijk Zwaan ,Sakata, Sarpan, Seminis, Sungro Seeds, Takii, Taiyo Seeds, Tokita, Unisem, Vagro Seeds, VNR, and Welcome Seeds all available at DesiKheti.
Explore our collection and buy the best tomato seeds online to grow tomatoes for your farm or home garden.
Buy Tomato Seeds from various brands at DesiKheti:
Advanta Tomato Seeds | Ankur Seeds Tomato Seeds | Ashoka Seeds Tomato Seeds | Bioseed Tomato Seeds | Chia Tai Tomato Seeds | DuFlora Tomato Seeds | East West Tomato Seeds | Elite Seeds Tomato Seeds | Enza Zaden Tomato Seeds | Fito Tomato Seeds | HM Clause Tomato Seeds | Indo American Seeds Tomato Seeds | Indus Seeds Tomato Seeds | JK Seeds Tomato Seeds | Kalash Tomato Seeds | Kanakadhaara Seeds Tomato Seeds | Kaveri Seeds Tomato Seeds | Known You Tomato Seeds | Konico Seeds Tomato Seeds | Mahyco Tomato Seeds | Max Seeds Tomato Seeds | Namdhari Seeds Tomato Seeds | Nath Seeds Tomato Seeds | Noble Seeds Tomato Seeds | Nongwoo Tomato Seeds | BASF Nunhems Tomato Seeds | Nuziveedu Seeds Tomato Seeds | Pahuja Seeds Tomato Seeds | Pan Seeds Tomato Seeds | PHS Seeds Tomato Seeds | Rasi Seeds Tomato Seeds | Rijk Zwaan Tomato Seeds | Sakata Tomato Seeds | Sarpan Seeds Tomato Seeds | Seminis Tomato Seeds | Sungro Seeds Tomato Seeds | Syngenta Tomato Seeds | Taiyo Tomato Seeds | Takii Seed Tomato Seeds | Tokita Tomato Seeds | Unisem Tomato Seeds | US Agriseeds Tomato Seeds | Vagro Seeds Tomato Seeds | VNR Tomato Seeds | Welcome Seeds Tomato Seeds
Popular Tomato Seed Varieties
At DesiKheti, you can explore a wide range of popular tomato seed varieties from leading national and international brands. We bring farmers and gardeners the best seeds from popular brands, carefully selected for quality, high yield, and performance. Whether you are looking for F1 hybrid tomato seeds, open-pollinated types, cherry tomatoes, or more, DesiKheti offers multiple options in every category to suit your farming and gardening needs.
Popular Advanta tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include ADV 2049 Tomato Seeds and Hi Tom 2 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Ankur seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Shree Arth 2792 Tomato Seeds and Ankur 3689 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Ashoka seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Sonam Tomato Seeds.
Popular Bioseed tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Kiran Tomato Seeds, Super Rasna Tomato Seeds, Swadeshi Tomato Seeds, Bioseed 90 Tomato Seeds, and Bioseed 777 Tomato Seeds.
Popular East West seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Rassam 054 Tomato Seeds and Arundhati 809 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Elite seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Florina Tomato Seeds.
Popular Enza Zaden tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include EZ-9003 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Fito tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Pride Tomato Seeds, Rudra Tomato Seeds, Golu Tomato Seeds, Sikinder Tomato Seeds, Sikander Gold Tomato Seeds, Sunrise Tomato Seeds, Bangalore Red Tomato Seeds, and Ruby Red Tomato Seeds.
Popular HM Clause tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Yogi 35 Tomato Seeds, Ambareesh Tomato Seeds, Prishi Tomato Seeds, Darsh Gold Tomato Seeds, Darsh Tomato Seeds, Regy Tomato Seeds, Mukunda Tomato Seeds, Priya-6636 Tomato Seeds, Deva 111 Tomato Seeds, Anju Tomato Seeds, Anant Tomato Seeds, Amul-83 Tomato Seeds, Alankar Tomato Seeds, Rishika Tomato Seeds, and Sona 38 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Indo American seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Indam-13201 Tomato Seeds, Indam-14301 Tomato Seeds, Indam Ruchi Tomato Seeds, and Naveen Tomato Seeds.
Popular Indus seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Anand Tomato Seeds, Indus 106 Tomato Seeds, and Indus-70 Tomato Seeds.
Popular JK seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include JK Utkristha Tomato Seeds (Oval), JKTH 100 Tomato Seeds (Acidic), JKTH 533 Tomato Seeds (Oval), JKTH 447 Tomato Seeds (Acidic), JKTH 633 Tomato Seeds (Oval), JKTH 5202 Tomato Seeds, JK Nandini Tomato Seeds (Acidic), JK Varsha Tomato Seeds (Acidic), JK Ratan Tomato Seeds (Acidic), JK Desi Tomato Seeds (Acidic), JKTH-811 Tomato Seeds, and JK Victor Tomato Seeds (Acidic).
Popular Kalash tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include KSP 1724 Pragathi Tomato Seeds, KSP 1306 Tomato Seeds, KSP 1335-Aaryan Tomato Seeds, Amayra Tomato Seeds, KSP 1326 Sarathi Tomato Seeds, BSS 1006 (Yuvraj) Tomato Seeds, and BSS 1004 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Kanakadhaara seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Rudra Tomato Seeds.
Popular Kaveri seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include 143 Tomato Seeds, KTH-354 Tomato Seeds, KTOH 1305 Tomato Seeds, KTOH 1303 Tomato Seeds, KTH-355 Tomato Seeds, and Chamatkar Tomato Seeds.
Popular Known You tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Sudharak Tomato Seeds, Laksh Tomato Seeds, Tanuja Tomato Seeds, Sheeja Tomato Seeds, Roja Tomato Seeds, KYI-133 Tomato Seeds, Siri Tomato Seeds, Ruhi Tomato Seeds, Rambha Tomato Seeds, and Precious Tomato Seeds.
Popular Mahyco tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Mahy Red Stone (2703) Tomato Seeds, Anirudh Tomato Seeds, Anagha Tomato Seeds, No. 525 Tomato Seeds, Mahy 401 Tomato Seeds, and Suparna Tomato Seeds.
Popular Max seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Jaiho Tomato Seeds and Tomato Seeds.
Popular Namdhari seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include NS 526 Tomato Seeds, NS 962 Tomato Seeds, NS 501 (6H 81) Tomato Seeds, NS 585 Tomato Seeds, NS 4266 Tomato Seeds, NS 521 Tomato Seeds, NS 1068 Tomato Seeds, Swaraksha Tomato Seeds, NS 592 Tomato Seeds, NS-585 Tomato Seeds, and NS 2535 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Nath seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Akhand NTH-1912 Tomato Seeds and NTH-1831 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Noble seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include NBH-Benaka Tomato Seeds, NBH-Anand (Improved) Tomato Seeds, and NBH-Trupthi Tomato Seeds.
Popular Nongwoo seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Salaar (3119) Tomato Seeds, Satyam Tomato Seeds, Prabhav (1322) Tomato Seeds, and Adi Tomato Seeds.
Popular Nunhems tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include US 440 Tomato Seeds, Shreshtha Tomato Seeds, US 2853 Tomato Seeds, US 800 Tomato Seeds, US 2048 Tomato Seeds, US 1080 Tomato Seeds, Aahan Tomato Seeds, Sampurna Tomato Seeds, Arya Tomato Seeds, US 1143 Tomato Seeds, Lakshmi Tomato Seeds, Pari Tomato Seeds, Badshah Tomato Seeds, and Rakshak Tomato Seeds.
Popular Nuziveedu seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Bhagya Tomato Seeds and Mithili (NTH-1348) Tomato Seeds.
Popular Pahuja seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Rishab Tomato Seeds.
Popular Pan seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Pan 1263 Tomato Seeds and Pan 3682 SPL Tomato Seeds.
Popular PHS tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Sweakar-448 Tomato Seeds and PHS-604 (Champion) Tomato Seeds.
Popular Rijk Zwaan tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include 72-197 RZ Cherry Tomato Seeds, Cheramy RZ (72-122) Tomato Seeds, and Pareso RZ (72-126) Tomato Seeds.
Popular Sakata tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Red Beauty Tomato Seeds, Red Rock (1035) Tomato Seeds, and Emerald Tomato Seeds.
Popular Seminis tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Abhilash Tomato Seeds, Abhirang Tomato Seeds, Durg Tomato Seeds, Manik Tomato Seeds, SV0843TD Tomato Seeds, Saksham Tomato Seeds, Yoddha Tomato Seeds, Prasun Tomato Seeds, Ganesh Tomato Seeds, Chiranjeevi Tomato Seeds, Abhigyan Tomato Seeds, Aryaman Tomato Seeds, Ansal Tomato Seeds, SVTD8306 Tomato Seeds, and Ayushman Tomato Seeds.
Popular Sungro seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include No. 575 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Taiyo seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include S-22 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Takii tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Veer 2000 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Tokita tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Suncherry Extra Sweet Tomato Seeds, Anushka Tomato Seeds, and Vishwanath Tomato Seeds.
Popular Unisem tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include USM-Kapila Tomato Seeds, USM Sindhu Tomato Seeds, USM-Kavya Tomato Seeds, and USM-Kareena Tomato Seeds.
Popular US Agriseeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include SW 1508 Tomato Seeds, SW 1504 Tomato Seeds, and SW 1501 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Vagro seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include S-22 Tomato Seeds.
Popular VNR tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include Julie Tomato Seeds, VNR 3357 Tomato Seeds, VNR 3171 Tomato Seeds, Uma Tomato Seeds, and VNR-3348 Tomato Seeds.
Popular Welcome seeds tomato seed varieties available at Desikheti include WS-2170 Tomato Seeds, WS 3030 Tomato Seeds, WS 2750 Tomato Seeds, Sai 25 Tomato Seeds, Sai 22 Tomato Seeds, Mahan Tomato Seeds, and WS-3100 Tomato Seeds.
Tomato Seeds in Farming
Tomato seeds are small, flat, round, and light brown to tan in color, with a slightly hairy texture. They are obtained from the mature fruits of the tomato plant. Under suitable conditions, tomato seeds generally germinate within 5–10 days.
Tomato seeds are usually sown in nurseries or seed trays and later transplanted to the main field once the seedlings reach 4–6 inches in height. Generally, around 60–80 g of tomato seeds are sown per acre. Using high-quality seeds and following proper sowing and transplanting practices are essential for ensuring healthy growth, uniform fruiting, and higher yields.
Importance of Choosing Quality Tomato Seeds
Seeds play a vital role in tomato farming, as the success of the entire crop depends on their quality. Selecting the best tomato seeds ensures healthy plants, high yield, and superior fruit quality. In tomato cultivation, using high-quality tomato seeds is the foundation for achieving better germination and growth.
Tomatoes are a sensitive crop that needs proper care from the very beginning, and it all starts with sowing quality tomato seeds. For farmers, investing in premium tomato seeds is not just an expense but a smart step toward higher productivity and profitability.
Why Procure Tomato Seeds from DesiKheti
At DesiKheti, we understand how crucial genuine seeds are for successful tomato farming. That’s why our collection features tomato seeds only from trusted and reputed national as well as international brands. Farmers can explore a wide range of popular tomato varieties suited for different regions, climates, and market preferences. Seeds listed on DesiKheti are authentic and tested for quality, making it the ideal platform to buy tomato seeds online.
Browse our tomato seed collection, choose the varieties you need, and get them delivered directly to your doorstep with just a few clicks. With reliable delivery, a growing range of brands, and the trust of farmers across India, DesiKheti has become a preferred destination for purchasing tomato seeds online. By choosing DesiKheti, farmers not only get genuine seeds but also gain the confidence of a better crop.
Tomato Seed Sowing Guide
Before sowing, it is important to check whether the tomato seeds have been pre-treated with chemicals. Commercially available hybrid and open-pollinated tomato seeds are usually treated to protect against soil-borne diseases and pests, ensuring better germination and healthier seedlings.
If the seeds are not pre-treated, it is recommended to treat them following expert guidance. This treatment helps prevent fungal infections and promotes healthy root development.
Once the seeds are treated and ready, they can be sown in nursery beds for raising seedlings, which are later transplanted to the main field after reaching suitable growth.
Time of Sowing Tomato Seeds
In India, tomatoes can be cultivated almost throughout the year, although the sowing schedule varies by region. In North India, tomato seeds are typically sown in November and the seedlings are transplanted in January. In South India, sowing is usually done in August. For summer crops, tomato seeds are sown in March, with transplantation taking place in April or May.
Method of Sowing Tomato Seeds
Tomatoes are generally cultivated through transplanting. Initially, tomato seeds can be sown in raised nursery beds. To improve soil fertility in the nursery, 3 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) can be mixed per square meter of the bed, and 0.5 kg of balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizer can be applied. Before sowing, beds can be fumigated with 10% formaldehyde and covered with polythene for 24 hours. After removing the polythene, wait four to five days before sowing the seeds. A row spacing of 7.5 cm can be maintained when planting tomato seeds. The beds can be covered with straw or polythene until germination. Protect seedlings from strong wind, intense sunlight, and heavy rain.
Alternatively, tomato seeds can be sown in trays that are 0.8 mm thick with 98 cells, filled with 1.25 kg of composted coir pith. A 50% shade net is also recommended to protect seedlings from harsh sunlight. Generally, seedlings are ready for transplantation when they reach 10–15 cm in height, usually after 25–30 days. Before transplanting, seedlings should be hardened to enhance their resilience.
The tomato seedlings can be transplanted onto ridge-side planting beds or raised beds, and earthing up can be performed to keep the plant centered on the ridge. For indeterminate varieties and hybrids, a spacing of 45–75 cm between plants and 60–120 cm between rows can be maintained. For determinate cultivars, a spacing of 30–40 cm between plants and 45–60 cm between rows can be maintained. Closer spacing can promote earlier and higher yields but may reduce fruit size.
In some regions, farmers directly sow tomato seeds in the field.
Tomato Seeds in Different Indian Languages
- Telugu: టమాటా విత్తనాలు (Tamata Viththanaalu)
- Hindi: टमाटर के बीज (Tamatar ke Beej)
- Bengali: টমেটো বীজ (Tomato Beej)
- Gujarati: ટમેટાના બીજ (Tametana Beej)
- Malayalam: തക്കാളി വിത്തുകൾ (Thakkali Vithukal)
- Marathi: टोमॅटो बियाणे (Tomato Biyane)
- Odia: ଟମାଟର ବିଆ (Tamatar Bia)
- Punjabi: ਟਮਾਟਰ ਦੇ ਬੀਜ (Tamatar de Beej)
- Tamil: தக்காளி விதை (Thakkali Vidhai)
- Kannada: ಟೊಮೇಟೊ ಬೀಜ (Tomato Beeja)
- Konkani: टोमॅटो बियाणे (Tomato Biyane)
- Assamese: টমেটোৰ বীজ (Tomator Beej)
- Urdu: ٹماٹر کے بیج (Tamatar ke Beej)
- Kashmiri: ٹماٹر ہُند دانہٕ (Tamatar Hund Daaneh)
- Sanskrit: टमाटरसस्य बीजानि (Tamatarasya Beejani)
Popular Tomato Seed Research Centres in India
- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru
- ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR), Varanasi
- ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre
- Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore
- Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Vellanikkara
Popular Tomato Seed Research Centres in the World
- World Vegetable Center (AVRDC), Taiwan
- Kihara Institute for Biological Research (KIBR), Japan
- Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), Spain
- National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science (NIHHS), South Korea
