How to Grow Paramount Tomato
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Paramount Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Paramount'
vegetableParamount is a classic determinate (bush-type) tomato variety known for its reliable production of medium-sized, globe-shaped red fruits. Developed in the early 20th century, it was one of the first widely adopted commercial tomato varieties and remains popular for home gardens due to its disease resistance and consistent yields.
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Example Paramount Tomato timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Paramount Tomato
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Paramount Tomato
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Paramount Tomato dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-10; grows as an annual in cooler climates
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seed leaves (cotyledons) emerge, followed by first true leaves. Plant is delicate and compact, 2-4 inches tall.
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide bright light (14-16 hours daily under grow lights). Maintain temperatures 65-75°F. Thin seedlings if overcrowded.
Vegetative/Establishment
3-4 weeks after transplantBushy growth with multiple sets of true leaves. Plant reaches 6-12 inches before first flowers appear. Determinate type shows compact, branching structure.
Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors. Space 24 inches apart. Support with cages or stakes early. Remove lower leaves after transplant to encourage root development.
Flowering
2-3 weeksSmall yellow flowers appear in clusters (trusses) along the main stem and branches. Flowers are self-pollinating and typically set fruit readily.
Maintain consistent watering and fertility. Avoid excess nitrogen which delays flowering. Ensure adequate calcium. Light afternoon shade in very hot climates helps flower set.
Fruiting & Development
4-6 weeksFlowers transform into small green fruits that gradually enlarge. Fruits appear in clusters and grow to 2.5-3 inches diameter. Determine type typically produces most fruit within 4-6 week window.
Continue consistent watering, especially during fruit development. Provide balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Remove excess foliage only if shading fruits excessively. Watch for pests and diseases.
Ripening & Harvest
3-4 weeks for first fruits; 6-8 weeks total production windowFruits turn from light green to orange-red as chlorophyll breaks down and lycopene develops. Ripe fruits are firm, fragrant, and fully colored.
Reduce watering slightly to concentrate flavors. Support heavy fruit clusters with twine. As temperatures drop in fall, harvest before frost. Fruits will continue to ripen indoors when picked at breaker stage.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick large caterpillars. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray for smaller infestations. Plant dill or parsley to attract parasitic wasps.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Use yellow sticky traps. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Increase humidity and water spray foliage. Apply neem oil or sulfur. Remove heavily infested leaves. Use predatory mites if available.
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Prune lower leaves and improve air circulation. Remove infected leaves immediately. Mulch to prevent soil splash. Apply copper fungicide or chlorothalonil preventatively.
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Improve air circulation; space plants adequately. Avoid overhead watering. Apply copper or mancozeb fungicide at first sign. Remove entire plant if severely infected.
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Ensure adequate calcium in soil before planting. Maintain consistent soil moisture. Apply crushed eggshells or lime around plant base. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Uses
Fresh eating and classic cooking
CulinaryParamount's medium-sized, well-balanced fruits are ideal for slicing, canning, and sauces. The flavor is a pleasant balance of sweetness and acidity, making it versatile for fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, and cooked dishes. [source]
Preservation and canning
CulinaryParamount was a commercial canning variety prized for its firm flesh and even ripening. Its determinate growth habit means most fruits ripen together, making it ideal for large batch canning projects and tomato sauce. [source]
Antioxidant-rich food
MedicinalTomatoes are excellent sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with cardiovascular health and cancer prevention. Regular consumption supports overall wellness. [source]
Garden pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting broader garden ecosystem health and increasing fruit set through natural pollination. [source]
Seed saving
HouseholdParamount is a hybrid or open-pollinated variety that produces viable seeds suitable for home seed saving. Saved seeds can be planted the following season for continued production. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Paramount tomatoes ripen progressively from midsummer through fall. Pick fruits when fully red and slightly soft to the touch. For best flavor, harvest in the morning after dew dries. Twist gently or use pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Fruits can be picked at the 'breaker stage' (when color just begins to show) and ripened indoors; this allows plants to redirect energy to remaining fruit and extends the season. Determinate varieties like Paramount typically produce most fruit over a 4-6 week window rather than continuously.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Paramount was released in the 1920s and became one of the first tomato varieties to be widely adopted for both home gardening and commercial canning, significantly influencing modern tomato breeding.
- 🌱 The determinate (bush) growth habit means Paramount plants typically reach only 3-4 feet tall, making them ideal for small gardens, containers, and intensive planting compared to indeterminate varieties that grow indefinitely.
- 🌱 Paramount tomatoes were engineered to be disease-resistant to early blight, one of the first commercially available disease-resistant tomato varieties, demonstrating early success in breeding for crop resilience.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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