Floridade Tomato seeds - Slicing Heirloom , annual vegetable

Tomato- Slicing Heirloom (Determinate)

Introducing our newest addition to the Caribbean Garden Seed collection - the Tomato- Slicing Heirloom (Determinate)! This variety is perfect for hot and humid climates, producing firm and flavorful red tomatoes that weigh about 6 ounces. Whether you're a home gardener or a market grower, this tomato is a great choice for your garden. With a maturity time of just 80 days, you'll be enjoying delicious tomatoes in no time.

Planting Instructions

Start your tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost of spring. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a flat. Keep the temperature at 70-75 degrees F and provide adequate light in a sunny window or under a grow light. Make sure to keep the soil moist with proper drainage. Once the second set of leaves emerges, transplant the seedlings into individual pots, burying the stems up to the lowest set of leaves for strong roots. A week before planting outside, expose the seedlings to the weather during the day to harden them. Wait until all threat of frost has passed before transplanting outside.

Growing Tips

Tomatoes cannot endure cold weather, so make sure the soil temperature reaches at least 70 degrees F before planting in full sun and rich soil. Space the plants 2 feet apart. For companion planting benefits, plant tomatoes with carrots or onions, but avoid planting them with cabbage or potatoes. Protect the plants if temperatures drop below 55 degrees F and use a thick layer of mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds. Water the plants once a week, avoiding getting the leaves wet. Determinate, or bush type tomatoes, do not require staking.

Harvesting

To test the ripeness of your tomatoes, gently press them - the flesh should yield slightly. The mature color also indicates ripeness. If the stem does not come off easily, use scissors to cut it. For the best flavor, let your tomatoes ripen on the vine. However, if frost is approaching, harvest all tomatoes, even the green ones. Unripe tomatoes will eventually ripen if kept in a warm place out of direct sunlight.