± 12 seeds
Matures in 80 days
Indeterminate plant, 5 feet and more
Perfect slicing variety for your sandwiches, this tomato has an exceptional taste and a beautiful dark red color. The plant is highly productive, with tomatoes weighing between 1 to 2 pounds.
Start your tomato seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Sow the seeds in a tray at 1/4" depth and about 1" apart. Maintain room temperature at around 20°C (70°F) until germination. Also, ensure proper lighting with a grow light or in front of a sunny window; keep the soil moist but make sure drainage is adequate. When the second set of leaves emerges, transplant the seedlings into individual pots, burying the stems as low as possible for optimal rooting. Remember to acclimate your plants a week before moving them to the garden to harden them. Note that tomatoes cannot tolerate cold and should not be planted in the garden until all threat of frost is eliminated. Plant them in full sun in rich, well-drained soil and, once again, bury the plants as low as possible to encourage root development.
Tomatoes often perform better when provided with a trellis or support, as this protects them from pests and diseases associated with excessive ground contact. As the plants start to grow, tie them to the support to aid their development. Temperatures below 12°C (55°F) can decrease production, so protect the plants if temperatures drop. Water the plants, but try to avoid wetting the leaves as much as possible to prevent yellowing. As soon as frost arrives, all tomatoes should be harvested, even the green ones. Unripe tomatoes will eventually ripen if stored in a warm place away from direct sunlight.