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Crop models are useful to improve the management and control of the greenhouse climate. In fact, they are essential if it is intended to optimize the climate control according to a defined production plan. In this paper are reviewed simulation models developed for horticultural crops with emphasis on leaf area and dry matter production. The dynamic crop models are based on the description of the crop photosynthesis and respiration processes. Various models were tested for a tomato crop grown in a greenhouse with a soil medium. The environmental factors such as air temperature and humidity, photosynthetic flux density, carbon dioxide concentration, among others, were measured, with a sampling rate of 1 minute and the mean values were stored with a 30min time interval. Plant leaf area and fresh and dry weights were measured by conducing periodic destructive tests. The results achieved with the different models employed are discussed and their applicability addressed.