What are the sun requirements for Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess'?

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' is a compact, determinate cherry tomato cultivar specifically bred for container gardening and small spaces. This dwarf variety typically reaches 12-18 inches in height, making it ideal for patios, balconies, and window boxes. The plant produces abundant clusters of small, round, bright red cherry tomatoes that are sweet and flavorful, perfect for fresh eating and salads. The foliage consists of typical tomato leaves that are compound and deeply lobed, with a distinctive tomato scent when brushed against. Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' produces small yellow flowers in clusters that develop into cherry-sized fruits approximately 0.5-0.75 inches in diameter. The compact, bushy growth habit eliminates the need for extensive staking or caging, though some support may be beneficial when heavily laden with fruit.

Native Range

Solanum lycopersicum originates from western South America, particularly the Andes mountains of Peru, Ecuador, and northern Chile. While the wild ancestor is native to this region, 'Patio Princess' is a modern cultivar developed through selective breeding for container gardening.

Suggested Uses

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' works well in containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, and small garden spaces. Ideal for urban gardening, balcony gardens, and as an edible ornamental plant. Perfect for beginners due to its compact size and reliable production. Excellent for fresh eating, salads, garnishes, and snacking directly from the plant.

How to Identify

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' can be identified by its extremely compact, bushy growth habit that rarely exceeds 18 inches in height. Key identifying features include the characteristic compound tomato leaves with serrated edges, small yellow five-petaled flowers in clusters, and the production of numerous small, round, bright red cherry tomatoes. The plant's determinate growth pattern means it forms a neat, self-supporting bush rather than the sprawling vines typical of indeterminate tomato varieties.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 1'6"

Width/Spread1' - 1'3"

Colors

Flower Colors

yellow

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

Summer Fall

summer through fall until first frost

Detailed Descriptions

Foliage Description

medium to 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

Drainagewell drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to high

Time to Maturity

65-70 days from transplant

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' requires consistent watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot and cracking. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, switching to a lower nitrogen, higher phosphorus and potassium formula once flowering begins. Container plants may need daily watering in hot weather. Pinch off suckers that emerge between main stems and leaf branches to maintain the plant's compact form and direct energy to fruit production.

Pruning

Prune Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' minimally due to its determinate growth habit. Remove suckers that develop in the crotch between the main stem and branches to maintain shape and improve air circulation. Remove any yellowing or diseased lower leaves throughout the growing season. Once the plant has set its fruit clusters, pinch off any new growth tips to redirect energy into fruit ripening.

Maintenance Level

low

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Solanum lycopersicum 'Patio Princess' produces edible fruits that are safe for human consumption. However, like all tomato plants, the green parts including leaves, stems, and unripe green tomatoes contain solanine and other glycoalkaloids which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Keep pets away from the foliage and green plant parts.