Roma VF Tomato Seed

Sowing: Begin planting tomatoes indoors 15-20 centimeters before the last frost of spring, sowing the seeds in a flat about 1 centimeter deep and 2.5 centimeters apart. Maintain the temperature at 21-24 degrees Celsius until germination, ensuring sufficient light exposure in a sunny window or under a grow light; keep the soil moist while ensuring proper drainage. Once the second set of leaves appears, transfer the seedlings into individual pots, burying the stems up to the lowest set of leaves to encourage robust root growth. Gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions during the day a week before transplanting to harden them; wait until all risk of frost has passed before planting outside. When the soil temperature reaches at least 21 degrees Celsius, transplant the seedlings into full sun and nutrient-rich soil, burying the entire stem up to the lowest set of leaves. Space the plants 60 centimeters apart. For companion planting benefits, consider planting tomatoes alongside carrots or onions, while avoiding cabbage or potatoes.

Growing: Protect the plants from temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius, as they can harm production. Apply a thick layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth; water the plants once a week, avoiding wetting the leaves. Determinate, or bush type tomatoes, generally do not require staking.

Test the ripeness of tomatoes by gently pressing them; the flesh should yield slightly, and their mature color also indicates ripeness. If the stem does not detach easily from the vine, cut it with scissors. For the best flavor, opt for vine-ripened tomatoes, but ensure to harvest all tomatoes as soon as frost threatens, including green ones, which will ripen indoors in a warm, sunlit area.

Given the low likelihood of cross-pollination among most tomato varieties, isolation is typically unnecessary. Select fully ripe tomatoes, cut them in half horizontally, and squeeze out the pulp into a container. Alternatively, for smaller tomatoes, use a blender to pulse the mixture, ensuring the seeds are not harmed. Allow the mixture to ferment for several days or until a thick layer of mold forms, effectively removing the gelatinous layer surrounding the seeds. After pouring off the mold and debris, rinse the seeds in a strainer under running water until clean, then spread them out to dry in a protected area away from direct sunlight. Stir them twice daily and utilize a fan to accelerate drying if the air is humid. Once completely dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to four years.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor, Hydroponics

Blooming Season: Summer

Planting Season: Spring

Latin Name/USDA Zones: Solanum lycopersicum/ 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 60-90 cm

Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Roma VF Tomato Seeds after the test date is generally around 2-3 years if stored under proper conditions. To maximize seed viability, store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Regularly check for signs of mold or damage. While germination rates may decrease over time, reputable suppliers often provide seeds with a high germination for the first few years.

Seed Type: Heirloom, Non-GMO

Soil Type: Loam Soil