Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio', Patio Tomato
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Annuals

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio'

Patio Tomato

UnknownSouth America

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitcompact, bushy
Foliagedeciduous
Height18-24 inches
Width18-24 inches

Key Features

Attracts Pollinators
Attracts Butterflies
Deer Resistant
Container Friendly
Maintenancelow

Overview

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' is a compact, determinate tomato cultivar specifically bred for container gardening and small-space cultivation. This dwarf variety typically reaches 18-24 inches in height with a bushy, mounding habit that makes it ideal for patios, balconies, and window boxes. The plant produces dark green, compound leaves with serrated leaflets characteristic of tomatoes, and develops small clusters of yellow, star-shaped flowers that give way to cherry-sized fruits. The fruits of Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' are typically bright red when fully ripe, measuring 1-2 inches in diameter with a round to slightly flattened shape. They offer the classic tomato flavor in a bite-sized package, making them perfect for snacking, salads, and garnishes. The compact nature of this cultivar eliminates the need for extensive staking or caging, though light support may still be beneficial when the plant is heavily loaded with fruit.

Native Range

Solanum lycopersicum is native to western South America, particularly the Andes mountains of Peru, Ecuador, and northern Chile. The species was later cultivated and developed in Mexico before being introduced to Europe in the 16th century.

Suggested Uses

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' works well in containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, and small garden spaces. Perfect for urban gardening, balcony gardens, and patio containers where space is limited. Excellent for beginning gardeners due to its manageable size and reliable production. The cherry-sized fruits are ideal for fresh eating, salads, garnishes, and children's gardens.

How to Identify

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' can be identified by its distinctly compact, bushy growth habit that rarely exceeds 24 inches in height. The plant has typical tomato foliage with dark green, compound leaves featuring serrated leaflets, but the overall plant structure is much more dense and mounded compared to standard tomato varieties. Small yellow flowers appear in clusters, followed by cherry-sized red fruits. The determinate growth pattern means the plant stops growing at a certain height and produces most of its fruit within a concentrated period.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1'6" - 2'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'

Colors

Flower Colors

yellow

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

~20 weeks
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
SpringSummerFall
late spring through early fall

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

bright yellow

Foliage Description

dark green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun
• 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 - 6.8(Neutral)
357912
Drainage
well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to high

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

65-75 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' requires consistent watering to maintain evenly moist soil, as container-grown plants dry out more quickly than those in the ground. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically daily during hot weather. Feed regularly with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, switching to a lower nitrogen, higher phosphorus formula once flowering begins to encourage fruit production. Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix enriched with compost. Monitor for common tomato pests like aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms, and provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Pruning

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' requires minimal pruning due to its determinate, compact growth habit. Remove any suckers that develop between the main stem and branches when they are small, though this is less critical than with indeterminate varieties. Remove lower leaves that touch the soil to prevent disease, and pinch off any diseased or yellowing foliage throughout the growing season. Once fruit begins to ripen, you can remove some lower leaves to improve air circulation and direct energy to fruit production.

Maintenance Level

low

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

The fruits of Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio' are safe and edible when ripe. However, like all members of the nightshade family, the leaves, stems, and green unripe fruits contain solanine and other alkaloids that can be toxic to humans and pets if consumed in large quantities. Keep pets and children away from the foliage and green fruits.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

Indoor Start

6 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

after last frost when soil temperature reaches 60°F

Days to Maturity

65–75 days

Plant Spacing

18 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

basil
oregano
parsley
marigolds
nasturtiums
peppers

Avoid Planting With

fennel
walnut trees
brassicas
corn