Few things in gardening spark as much passionate debate as the quest for the ultimate sweet cherry tomato. Among the top contenders are three beloved varieties: Sun Gold, Sun Sugar, and Sweet 100.
Each has its own loyal fanbase, and each promises a different experience in flavor, growth, and performance. But deciding which one deserves a spot in your garden isn’t just about picking a favorite—it’s about understanding the unique characteristics that make each variety shine.
Let’s explore these sweet gems in detail to help you make an informed, mouthwatering choice.
Sun Gold: The Golden Standard of Sweetness
Taste and Flavor:
The Sun Gold cherry tomato is the darling of many gardeners for a reason: its flavor is nothing short of legendary. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tang, Sun Gold’s unique tropical, almost mango-like taste makes it stand out. Bite into one, and you’ll be rewarded with an explosion of juicy, fruity goodness that’s almost addictive. It’s the kind of flavor that lingers on your palate, leaving you craving just one more.
Growth and Yield:
Sun Gold is an indeterminate variety, which means it’ll keep growing and producing until frost takes it down. It’s a prolific producer, offering cascading trusses of small, golden-orange tomatoes that ripen early in the season and continue to fruit heavily. However, Sun Gold’s thin skin makes it prone to splitting if left too long on the vine or exposed to heavy rains—a minor drawback for such a superstar. The trade-off, of course, is a tomato so delicious that many gardeners are willing to overlook its fragility.
Ideal For:
If you’re seeking a cherry tomato that feels like a treat straight from nature’s candy shop, Sun Gold is the one. Its complex flavor profile makes it perfect for snacking, salads, and even tomato-based desserts (yes, desserts!). It’s also a fantastic choice for introducing kids to the joys of gardening—watch their faces light up as they taste their first Sun Gold straight off the vine.
Sun Sugar: The Reliable Sweetheart
Taste and Flavor:
Often compared to Sun Gold, Sun Sugar brings sweetness with slightly less tang. While it lacks the tropical zing of Sun Gold, it compensates with a milder, more universally appealing flavor that’s just as sweet. Some might describe Sun Sugar as the “comfort food” of cherry tomatoes—easy to love and endlessly enjoyable. It’s a tomato that feels familiar yet special, striking the perfect balance for those who prefer a gentler flavor.
Growth and Yield:
Sun Sugar’s thicker skin gives it a key advantage: less splitting. Like Sun Gold, it’s an indeterminate grower and produces an abundance of bright orange fruits throughout the season. Sun Sugar plants are hardy and resistant to common tomato diseases, making them a great choice for gardeners who value low maintenance. The robust nature of Sun Sugar ensures that even novice gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest without too much fuss.
Ideal For:
If you’ve ever been heartbroken by a split Sun Gold tomato, Sun Sugar is here to heal your wounds. Its durability makes it ideal for gardeners in wetter climates or those looking for a cherry tomato that handles transportation and storage better. It’s also a favorite for cooking, as its slightly thicker skin holds up well in heat, making it an excellent choice for roasting or grilling.
Sweet 100: The Old-School Favorite
Taste and Flavor:
Sweet 100 has been a go-to cherry tomato for decades, known for its classic tomato flavor and a candy-like sweetness. While it might not have the nuanced profile of Sun Gold or Sun Sugar, it delivers consistency—a straightforward, sugary burst that satisfies the traditional tomato lover. It’s the kind of tomato that reminds you why you fell in love with gardening in the first place.
Growth and Yield:
The name “Sweet 100” is no exaggeration. This variety is famous for its incredible yield, often producing hundreds of bright red, bite-sized tomatoes on a single plant. Sweet 100 is also indeterminate and loves to climb, so give it plenty of support to reach its full potential. Its vigorous growth and impressive output make it a favorite for gardeners who prioritize quantity without compromising too much on quality.
Ideal For:
For gardeners who want an abundance of sweet tomatoes with a tried-and-true flavor, Sweet 100 is a reliable choice. Its red fruits are visually stunning and make a great addition to summer dishes, from pasta salads to skewers on the grill. It’s also a fantastic option for preserving—think homemade tomato sauce or sun-dried tomatoes that capture the essence of summer.
The Showdown: Which One Wins?
Choosing between Sun Gold, Sun Sugar, and Sweet 100 isn’t easy because each offers something special. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Sun Gold | Sun Sugar | Sweet 100 |
| Flavor | Tropical, sweet-tangy | Sweet, mild | Sweet, classic |
| Color | Golden-orange | Bright orange | Bright red |
| Skin Durability | Thin, prone to splitting | Thick, less splitting | Moderate |
| Yield | High | High | Very high |
| Disease Resistance | Moderate | High | Moderate |
Final Thoughts: The Best Cherry Tomato for You
Flavor Enthusiasts: If flavor is your top priority and you’re willing to pamper your plants a bit, Sun Gold is the gold standard. Its tropical sweetness is a culinary delight that’s hard to beat.
Practical Gardeners: For those who want sweetness with fewer headaches, Sun Sugar’s reliability makes it a fantastic choice. Its disease resistance and sturdy skin are ideal for those who prefer low-maintenance gardening.
Quantity Seekers: If you’re aiming for sheer volume and a classic tomato experience, Sweet 100’s productivity is hard to beat. Its vigorous growth and high yield are perfect for large families or those who love sharing their harvest.
In the end, why choose just one? Many gardeners grow all three to enjoy the best of each variety. Imagine a salad bursting with Sun Gold’s tropical hues, Sun Sugar’s cheerful orange, and Sweet 100’s vivid red. It’s a trio that transforms your garden into a kaleidoscope of flavor and color—a feast for the eyes and the palate. Better yet, it’s an opportunity to experience the joy of gardening in all its diversity. So, what’s stopping you? Grab your seeds, get your hands dirty, and let these cherry tomatoes redefine what sweetness means in your garden.
