Tomato - Rutgers (DET)

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CA$3.50
3.5 9 CA$3.50 - CA$9.00
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per item
Approximately 405 seeds per gram.
Lycopersicum esculentum
Lot# TM35163
The Rutgers Tomato was developed by crossing Marglobe with JTD.  Rutgers produces vibrant red, round tomato fruits on a strong, disease resistant vine. Tomatoes average 5-10 cm (2-4 ") across and 5-8 cm (2-3") high. The average weight of Rutger's luscious fruit is about 454 g (1 lb) per fruit.  Makes a great slicer for sandwiches or salads.
Planting Instructions:
  • Start indoors mid-March to early April. Plant 2-3 seeds 6 mm (1/4”) deep in good potting mix in 7-10 cm (3-4”) pots. It is best to keep tomato seedlings under very bright light to prevent plants from becoming too leggy. You may have to transplant seedlings to larger pots to allow for root growth. When transplanting outside, allow 45 cm (18”) between plants and 60-76 cm (24-30”) between rows. Germination takes approximately 6-14 days. Transplant deeply to the first set of leaves after the risk of frost has passed. Thin to the strongest plant. The seeds require warm soil between  21-26°C (70-80° F). Warmer soils will promote faster germination.  Keep soil moist, but not soggy while awaiting germination. Moderate watering will suffice once seedlings break through the soil. Select a well-drained location that receives lots of sunlight after the last frost to transplant from pots.  Rutgers is a determinate vine that grows to 91-125 cm (36-48”) tall.  Tomato cages work well to support the plant and the tomato yields with this tomato plant.
  • Soil Conditions:  Well worked rich, loose well-drained soil. Soil ph: 5.5-7.0, Ideal 6.3-6.5 
  • Planting Depth:   Sow seeds 6-12 mm (¼-½") deep.
  • Germination:  8-11 days.
  • Height at Maturity:  121-152 cm (4-5’)    Spread:  45-60 cm (18-24”) across.
  • Days to Maturity:   60-110 days.  
  • Watering:   Tomato plants are heavy feeders especially when they have fruit growing.  Proper watering is tricky as you have to water deeply and then let the soil dry out slightly but still remain slightly moist and then water deeply again.  Keep watering schedule consistent throughout the growing season and you will not be disappointed.  Moisture is critical to prevent cracked fruits and blossom end rot.   Mulch the soil around tomato plants to help reduce water evaporation and use drip irrigation.
  • Sun/Shade:  Full Sun    
  • Spacing after Thinning:  Set transplants 45 cm (18”) part in rows 60-76 cm (24-30”).
Additional Information
Open pollinated-untreated seeds. Rutgers is a highly productive variety. In general, perfectly ripe tomatoes show deep red color but still feel firm when gently squeezed.  Tomatoes do continue to ripen after being picked. Gently grab and twist until the tomato pulls free from the stem, or use a pair of clippers. Cut stems close to fruits.  Always store picked tomatoes at room temperature indoors, or in a shady place outside. Never refrigerate tomatoes, because temperatures below 13 C (55° F) cause flavor compounds to break down.