What hardiness zones is Solanum lycopersicum 'Glacier' suitable for?

Solanum lycopersicum 'Glacier' is a determinate, early-maturing tomato cultivar in the Solanaceae family, growing 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) tall. Developed at Oregon State University for the Pacific Northwest climate. Fruit are round, 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) in diameter, 2–4 ounces (57–113 g), bright red. Days to maturity: 55–58 from transplant — among the earliest slicing tomatoes, 2–3 weeks earlier than 'Early Girl' (62–65 days). The early maturity is the primary cultivar value — it produces ripe fruit before late blight (Phytophthora infestans) typically arrives in the Pacific Northwest in late August–September. Determinate — sets fruit in a concentrated period, then declines. Flavour is mild, standard tomato — less complex than later-maturing indeterminate cultivars, a trade-off for the early maturity. The compact, determinate habit suits containers (minimum 5 gallons / 19 L) and small gardens. Named for Glacier National Park.

Native Range

Solanum lycopersicum is native to western South America. 'Glacier' was developed at Oregon State University for the Pacific Northwest.

Suggested Uses

Early-season fresh eating — the first ripe tomato of the PNW season. Slicing, sandwiches, salads. In the Pacific Northwest, a primary early cultivar that matures before late blight arrives. Combine with a later-maturing indeterminate for extended harvest.

How to Identify

Identified as a small, determinate, early-maturing red tomato. Distinguished from other early tomatoes by the Oregon State provenance and the 55–58 day maturity — earlier than most named early cultivars.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height2' - 3'

Width/Spread1'6" - 2'

Reaches mature size in approximately 1 years

Colors

Flower Colors

yellow

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

~8 weeks

Summer

Yellow flowers from June through August. Self-pollinating. Concentrated fruit set (determinate).

Detailed Descriptions

Foliage Description

Medium green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun

Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)

357912

Soil Types

loam sand

Drainagewell drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

Medium

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

55-58 days from transplant

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Start seed indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Transplant after last frost, soil 60°F (15°C). Space 24 inches (60 cm) apart. Full sun, fertile well-drained soil, pH 6.0–7.0. Water 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) per week. Cage or stake for support. In the Pacific Northwest, transplant mid-May for July harvest.