How to Grow Kolibri Tomato
Wikimedia Commons
Kolibri Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Kolibri'
vegetableKolibri is a compact, dwarf determinate tomato variety that produces small, sweet cherry tomatoes. Known for its ornamental appeal and prolific fruiting habit, it's ideal for containers and small spaces. The plant typically reaches only 12-16 inches in height, making it perfect for patios, balconies, and windowsills.
When should you plant Kolibri Tomato in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Kolibri Tomato timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Kolibri Tomato
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Kolibri Tomato
Around Jun 21≈ 65 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Kolibri Tomato dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-11, but can be grown as an annual anywhere with 60+ frost-free days
Sign up free to see if Kolibri Tomato grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Kolibri Tomato timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny plants with 2-4 true leaves emerging; very compact and delicate
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light 12-16 hours daily; maintain temperatures of 65-75°F; thin seedlings if crowded
Vegetative
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple branches and leaves; remains very compact at 6-12 inches tall; bushy growth habit
Harden off before transplanting; water regularly; begin light fertilizing every 2-3 weeks with balanced or slightly higher potassium formula; support with small stakes if needed
Flowering
2-3 weeksSmall yellow flowers appear on clusters; plant begins to branch extensively; flowers are prolific and continuous
Maintain consistent watering to prevent flower drop; switch to higher phosphorus/potassium fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10); ensure adequate sunlight; provide light support as needed
Fruiting
3-4 weeks to first ripe fruitSmall cherry tomatoes develop from flowers; fruits are typically 1-1.5 inches in diameter, red when ripe; many fruits develop simultaneously
Continue consistent watering; reduce nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage at expense of fruit; continue fertilizing every 2-3 weeks; ensure air circulation to prevent disease
Production & Harvest
4-8 weeks until frostPlant produces heavy yields of ripe cherry tomatoes over several weeks; maintains compact habit while continuously flowering and fruiting
Pick ripe fruits regularly to encourage continued production; maintain watering schedule; continue light fertilizing; monitor for late blight in humid conditions; pinch off suckers minimally as plant is determinate
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with strong water jet; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs or lacewings
-
Increase humidity; spray with neem oil; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
-
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; reflective mulches deter them
-
Hand-pick caterpillars; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis); encourage parasitic wasps
-
Remove infected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if needed
-
Spray with sulfur or baking soda solution; improve air circulation; reduce humidity
Uses
Fresh eating and snacking
CulinaryKolibri cherry tomatoes are sweet and flavorful, perfect for eating fresh off the vine or adding to salads. Their small size makes them ideal for snacking directly from the plant. [source]
Sauces and preserves
CulinaryThe small size and high yield make Kolibri tomatoes excellent for making cherry tomato confit, pasta sauces, or roasted tomato preparations. They can also be preserved through canning or drying. [source]
Ornamental container gardening
HouseholdWith its dwarf habit, prolific fruiting, and attractive growth form, Kolibri functions as both a productive plant and a decorative element on patios and balconies. The ripening fruit adds visual interest throughout the season. [source]
Cocktail and appetizer garnish
CulinaryThe small, attractive cherry tomatoes make perfect garnishes for cocktails, appetizer platters, and gourmet presentations. Their manageable size fits easily into dishes and drinks. [source]
Lycopene and antioxidants
MedicinalLike all tomatoes, Kolibri contains lycopene and other antioxidants that may support heart health and reduce inflammation. The vibrant red color indicates high antioxidant content. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest cherry tomatoes when fully red and slightly soft to the touch. Pick every 2-3 days during peak season for continuous production. Fruits continue to ripen after picking if left at room temperature. For longest storage, harvest slightly underripe and ripen indoors. Kolibri will produce until frost in most climates.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Kolibri means 'hummingbird' in German and Dutch, referring to the plant's small, compact size and delicate appearance.
- 🌱 Despite its tiny stature (12-16 inches), a single Kolibri plant can produce 200-300+ cherry tomatoes in a season, making it one of the most prolific compact varieties.
- 🌱 Kolibri is a determinate variety, meaning it flowers and fruits heavily over a concentrated period before declining, making it excellent for succession planting.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Kolibri Tomato planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Kolibri Tomato seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Kolibri Tomato timeline →