Heirloom

Open pollinated varieties that have been kept genetically pure for generations. Their seeds can be trusted to produce true type fruit from generation to generation.

Hybrid

Is a cross between two or more varieties. The seeds or plants purchased are from first generation fruit that will produce predictable fruit. Problems often arise when seeds are kept from hybrid fruit. These seeds many times are not genetically stable and can not be trusted to produce fruit true to the fruit they came from. It is possible to have seeds from hybrid fruit that will not produce very may tomatoes or even on fruit just vines. Problems may be more prevalent in third and fourth generation fruit.

There are exceptions some seeds kept from a hybrid tomato will produce true type fruit from generation to generation.

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The main advantage of buying hybrid variety plants is that they bare more fruit during the season. They will usually produce fruit quicker and be more consistent in shape and color.

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There is little known difference nutritionally between heirloom and hybrid and taste varies between varieties. This is why there is much debate about which tastes best.