STARTING SEEDLINGS

Start indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor night temperatures 50-55°F (10- 13°C). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 80°F (24°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into individual 4 inch pots, burying stems up to base of leaves. Maintain at 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until nights reach 55°F (13°C), then gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant these vigorous indeterminate climbers 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.

GROWING NOTES

Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant several inches deeper than seedlings were growing in containers. Provide strong stakes or tall wire cages at planting time. Mulch to provide even moisture retention; don't overwater once fruit begins to ripen.

HARVEST AND USE

For best flavor, pick fully ripe and don’t store in the refrigerator. These richly colored, juicy-sweet tomatoes are hard to resist straight out of the garden. Cut into thick slices and serve drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh chopped basil or dill for an irresistible summer treat.