Do tomatoes have to be replanted each year?

Question

I thought tomato plants had to be replanted every year but my MIL had something interesting happen so now I don't know. About 20 yrs. ago she had tomato plants that she grew in her back yard then her husband put a barn there. The barn has been there for 20 yrs. I guess but last year my husband tore it down and this year she got tomatoes. What's up with that? She got alot of tomatoes too and they are good tasting I just didn't think they came back each year. Thanks!

Answer 1

they have to be replanted evry year

Answer 2

If some fruit has fallen on the ground it may have reseeded itself.  But it isn't something you can count on.  Also, if you grow hybrid tomatoes, the seeds don't always produce the same type of tomato.

I have also had them grow on their own and some were very good and some not great.  Better to plant new each year and be sure.  

Answer 3

All I know is that tomato plants die when the cold winter season rolls around.  So you have to plant them every growing season.