Sub Arctic Plenty Tomatoes: Cold-Hardy Harvests for Short Seasons

Sub Arctic Plenty tomatoes are a game-changer for gardeners in cooler climates or those with shorter growing seasons. This cold-hardy variety was specifically bred to thrive in northern regions where traditional tomatoes struggle. Despite its northern heritage, Sub Arctic Plenty delivers surprisingly flavorful, medium-sized red tomatoes that ripen reliably even when temperatures dip.

Perfect for Cool Climate Gardening

If you live in a region with late spring frosts or early fall freezes, Sub Arctic Plenty is your answer. This determinate variety matures quickly—often in just 60 to 70 days—allowing you to harvest a full crop before cold weather arrives. The plants are compact and manageable, making them ideal for container gardening, raised beds, or small garden spaces in northern zones.

Sowing and Early Growth

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Sub Arctic Plenty seeds germinate reliably in standard seed-starting conditions. Transplant seedlings into individual containers once they develop their first true leaves. Harden off plants over 7 to 10 days, then move them outdoors as soon as soil temperatures reach 50°F—earlier than most tomato varieties can tolerate.

Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart. Water consistently and apply mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature fluctuations common in cooler climates.

Low-Maintenance Growing

Sub Arctic Plenty requires minimal pruning compared to indeterminate varieties. The compact growth habit means less staking is needed, though light support helps keep fruit off the ground. Focus on consistent watering and mulching to support steady growth through the season.

Quick Harvesting Window

Expect ripe tomatoes 60 to 70 days after transplanting. Harvest fruit when fully red and slightly soft. Sub Arctic Plenty tomatoes are excellent fresh and hold their flavor well for sauces and preserving, making them perfect for gardeners who want to maximize their short growing season.

In Summary

The Sub Arctic Plenty (Early) Tomato is trying to tell you something: It produces a lot of fruits very quickly (45 days!), and really likes cooler temps. It would also like you to know that you can quickly (45 days!) grow the plants closer together without a stake or cage, or in a container or hanging basket. One more thing: It doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture by ripening so many fruits so quickly (45 days!). You’ll harvest clusters of robust, red, juicy, tart, smallish medium-sized fruits in no time (45 days!). Plenty of them.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Determinate, tomato cage support, no pruning 
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 12"-24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 45-60 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper