UNION SPRINGS, Ala. - Regional differences and hundreds of varieties make the tomato the number one vegetable plant grown by gardeners, but which tomato is best for you?

"While everyone's taste varies, one fact remains true that tomatoes are a great source for vitamins A and C - important to a healthy lifestyle," says Dennis Thomas, General Manager of Bonnie Plant Farm, the nation's largest grower of container vegetable plants. "And, even though it is a warm season crop, it can be grown in every state and as far north as Canada," he continued.

Thomas offers some recommendations of popular regional tomato varieties, many of which you may never have heard of.

Yellow Pear - Not all tomatoes are red, and the Yellow Pear, an heirloom variety, is considered to be one of the most attractive of all tomatoes for salads. The Yellow Pear grows best in milder temperatures.

Supersteak - Size matters, and growing up to two pounds, the Supersteak is rich in flavor and ripens to a deep red color.

Rutgers - If looks are important, try the Rutgers, a round, bright red fruit that ripens evenly from inside out. Attractive, thick, and solid, the Rutgers is great for sandwiches.

Bonnie Original - You want lots of tomatoes, this disease resistant variety often produces up to 50 pounds of tomatoes per plant.

Patio Hybrid - If space is of the essence, container gardeners take note. The Patio Hybrid has compact vines that produce medium-sized, attractive red fruit.

Northern Exposure Hybrid - Northerners love this variety for its productivity in high altitude areas with short cool growing seasons. This vigorous plant yields deep red fruit.

Creole - As its name states, the Creole was developed in Louisiana, where it is still a Southern favorite because of its wonderful taste.

Arkansas Traveler - This heirloom variety spread from the Ozark Mountains throughout the Deep South. Heat tolerant, even during drought conditions, the Arkansas Traveler produces flavorful tomatoes where other varieties fail.

Award Winning - Some All-American selections to consider include the Big Beef Hybrid, Celebrity Hybrid, or the Jubilee.

For more information about selecting the tomato of your choice, visit www.bonnieplants.com.