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Best Tomato Seeds for the Scottish Climate

Tomato Seeds for the Scottish Climate

Scotland’s cooler, shorter summers and often damp conditions can make tomato growing a challenge — but the right varieties make all the difference. Whether you're growing under cover or giving it a go outdoors, here’s your guide to the best tomato seeds suited to Scottish conditions.

Tomatoes for Greenhouses or Polytunnels

If you’re growing in a greenhouse, polytunnel, or even a cold frame, these varieties are reliable and productive under protection.

Variety Type Why It Works in Scotland
Shirley F1 Indeterminate Early cropping and reliable. Great disease resistance and performs well in lower light.
Alicante Indeterminate Coping well with cooler climates, it produces juicy, sweet fruit with excellent yields.
Sungold F1 Indeterminate Exceptionally sweet cherry tomato, thrives in protected, lower-light conditions.
Crimson Crush’ F1 Indeterminate High resistance to blight — ideal for Scotland’s humid summers. Classic rich tomato flavour.

Outdoor Tomatoes (Cold Climate Hardy)

These tomatoes are specially suited for outdoor growing, even in Scotland's variable and often damp weather.

Variety Type Why It Works in Scotland
Latah Determinate Bred for cold regions. Super early and productive with a mild, tangy flavour.
Red Alert Bush Very early and ideal for containers or raised beds. Sweet cherry fruit and great cropping.
Glacier Semi-determinate Cold-tolerant and fruits well even with low light. Excellent flavour for an early tomato.
Arctic Plenty Determinate UK-bred for the north. Tough and reliable with a good flavour even outdoors.

Growing Tips for Scottish Tomato Growers

  • Start early indoors: Sow seeds between February and March for a strong head start.
  • Use heat mats or warm windowsills to help germination along.
  • Harden off gradually before transplanting to final positions.
  • Choose a sheltered, sunny spot for outdoor growing — south-facing walls are ideal.
  • Water consistently and feed weekly once fruit begins to set.
  • Watch for blight — choose resistant varieties or protect plants with fleece or tunnels.

Bonus Recipe: Quick Tomato Oatcake Bites

For early cropping varieties like ‘Latah’ or ‘Red Alert’, try this easy summer snack:

  • Ingredients: A handful of cherry tomatoes, sea salt, black pepper, Scottish rapeseed oil, cream cheese, oatcakes, and fresh herbs (basil or chives).
  • Method: Chop tomatoes and mix with salt, pepper, and oil. Spread cream cheese onto oatcakes, top with the tomato mix, and garnish with herbs.

Perfect served with a cup of tea in the garden on a sunny day.