Tiny Tim tomato is a delightful dwarf variety developed by the University of New Hampshire in 1945, proving that big flavor comes in tiny packages. These compact plants reach just 18 to 24 inches tall and produce clusters of vibrant red cherry tomatoes in as little as 45 days, though some sources report harvests extending to 65-69 days. Hardy in zones 3-10, this determinate variety thrives in containers, window boxes, and small spaces without requiring staking or support. Despite its miniature stature, Tiny Tim delivers countless sweet-tart tomatoes that pack all the bravado of full-size varieties into explosive bite-sized morsels.
Photo © True Leaf Market
Growing Conditions
USDA Zone
3-10
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile Loam With Organic Matter
Preferred Temp65-85°F
Growth Stats
36 in
Height
24 in
Width
24 in
Spacing
45–69
Days to Harvest
PeriodAnnual, Perennial
TypeForb/herb
Plant Profile
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Zones
3-10
Size
36in H x 24in W
Growth
Annual, Perennial
Care
High
Hover over chart points for details
Highlights
This remarkable dwarf variety transforms any small space into a productive tomato garden, excelling in containers where other varieties struggle. The compact plants produce copious clusters of 1-inch scarlet cherry tomatoes with sweet-tart-tangy flavor that rivals full-sized varieties. What sets Tiny Tim apart is its unique ability to thrive in sunny window boxes, on city stoops, and in confined spaces while requiring no staking or support systems. Its determinate growth habit means concentrated harvests of these miniature gems, making it perfect for gardeners with limited space who refuse to compromise on homegrown flavor.
Common Uses
These sweet-tart miniature cherry tomatoes excel in fresh applications where their concentrated flavor and perfect bite-size make them shine. They're ideal for snacking straight from the plant, adding bursts of flavor to salads, and creating stunning garnishes for dishes. Their compact size and vibrant color make them perfect for picnic table centerpieces and decorative food presentations, while their sweet-tangy character works beautifully in fresh salsas and as colorful additions to pasta dishes.
Growing Timeline
First Bloom
Early Summer
First Harvest
Mid-summer
Last Harvest
Early Fall
Care Instructions
Start Indoors
Sow seeds indoors 3-8 weeks before the last frost date, maintaining bottom heat around 50°F to facilitate germination. Once seedlings emerge, provide bright light to prevent legginess and continue growing for 6-8 weeks until transplant size.
Transplant Outdoors
Transplant seedlings outdoors when nighttime temperatures remain consistently above 45-50°F after the last frost. Space plants 24 inches apart in rows 36 feet apart, ensuring they're planted in well-composted potting medium rather than garden soil.
Harvesting
Tiny Tim produces masses of tomatoes that ripen in a concentrated period typical of determinate varieties. Harvest when the small cherry tomatoes reach vibrant scarlet red color and feel slightly soft to gentle pressure. Gently grasp ripe tomatoes and give them a slight twist - they should come off the vine with minimal effort. Keep a close eye on ripening fruit during the concentrated harvest period to catch them at peak flavor.
Pruning
As a determinate variety, Tiny Tim requires minimal pruning compared to indeterminate tomatoes. Consider removing some lower foliage as the season progresses to improve air circulation around the plant and reduce the risk of diseases like blight.
Growing Calendar
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Companion Planting
Pests & Diseases
Ecology & Traits
Edible
Scientific Classification
Solanum lycopersicum L.
Family
Solanaceae
Genus
Solanum
Duration
Annual, Perennial
Growth Habit
Determinate
Native Status
L48 (I)AK (I)HI (I)PR (I)VI (I)CAN (W)
History & Origin
“Tiny Tim cherry tomatoes were introduced by the University of New Hampshire in 1945, emerging during the mid-20th century when plant breeders were exploring compact varieties for space-conscious gardeners. This diminutive variety quickly became a beloved heirloom, cherished not for any specific breeding goal or climate adaptation, but for its remarkable ability to deliver full-sized tomato flavor in a package perfectly suited to small gardens and container growing. The variety has endured for nearly eight decades, gaining popularity among urban gardeners and those with limited outdoor space who discovered they could grow meaningful harvests in the smallest of spaces.”