Description
Rio Grande Tomatoes were developed by the University of California. It is known as one of the best paste tomatoes. Just like tomatoes that are specifically developed for cooler climates this one here was developed to withstand hot climates. This is a popular variety down south for gardeners as it grows very well in the hot humid southern weather. A determinate tomato plant variety that will produce a heavy yield come harvest time in your vegetable garden.
Determinate tomato plant variety, Heirloom, Open Pollinated, Non GMO
RIO GRANDE TOMATO SEEDS - GROWING TOMATO PLANTS FROM SEED
SOWING:
Start your Rio Grande tomato plants indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost. Plant your tomato seeds 1/4” deep in your seed starting tray flats, cells or peat pots. Keep the temperature at 70-75 degrees F until germination. Be sure to provide adequate lighting for germination and for growing by placing the growing trays near a sunny window or using a grow light. As your seedlings begin to grow you will consequently need to transplant them into individual pots to grow more strongly rooted plants.
A week before transplanting the seedlings outside you need to begin to harden off the plants. They need to get used to the outside weather gradually. Tomatoes cannot handle cold weather. To be safe wait at least a week or two after the final frost to be on the safe side before transplanting your tomato plants in the vegetable garden. Soil temperature should be at least 70 degrees F before planting. Your Rio Grande tomato plants should also be planted in full sun, very rich soil and be spaced 24” apart with about 36” between rows.
GROWING RIO GRANDE TOMATOES
When growing Rio Grande Tomatoes staking or a trellis is not required as this is a determinate variety. Determinate or bush type tomatoes do not require staking. If however you'd like to offer your tomato plants additional support in high windy areas you can do so if you choose. Simply tie off your tomato plants to the stake with twine or use tomato clips. The supports should also be put into place in advance. As your tomato plants begin to grow further you’ll then have something to tie the vines too. If cool weather is expected protect your plants as temperatures below 55 degrees F can damage plants & production. Later on as your tomato plants begin to start flowering and starting to bear fruit, your support will be able to help hold the weight of all the tomatoes.
As with most vegetable plants a good layer of mulch is highly recommended as this will help conserve moisture and control weeds. When watering your tomato plants avoid getting the leaves wet as this helps keep your plants healthy. You should always water at the base of the plant to help keep your tomato plants healthy from various pests and diseases. Water from below not above.
HARVESTING:
The colour of the tomatoes will help indicate that your tomatoes are ready to harvest. You can also test the ripeness of your tomatoes by pressing gently on it, the flesh should yield slightly. You can harvest your tomatoes by hand or use a pair of scissors to cut them off the vine. Tomatoes ripened off the vine have the best flavour. Rio Grande tomatoes are ready to harvest in about 80 days.
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