The Rutgers tomato is a classic heirloom variety known for its rich, old-fashioned tomato flavor and exceptional versatility. Developed in 1934 as a collaboration between Rutgers University and the Campbell Soup Company, this variety remains a staple for home gardeners. Rutgers tomato plants produce medium-sized, globe-shaped fruits with thick, meaty flesh, making them ideal for slicing, canning, sauces, and fresh eating.
Key Features:
- Type: Heirloom
- Growth Habit: Determinate (bushy, compact growth with a concentrated harvest window)
- Fruit Size: 6–8 ounces
- Fruit Shape: Globe-shaped
- Color: Deep red when mature
- Flavor: Full-bodied, rich, and tangy
- Use: Slicing, sandwiches, canning, sauces, and fresh eating
- Days to Maturity: 70–75 days
- Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours per day)
- Support: Minimal support needed due to determinate growth, but cages or stakes can help with heavier yields
Planting Instructions:
- Seed Starting: If starting from seeds, sow indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep in seed-starting mix and keep the soil moist until germination.
- Transplanting: Transplant outdoors after the last frost when plants are 6–8 inches tall. Space 24–30 inches apart in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
- Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced tomato fertilizer once every 2–3 weeks for optimal growth and fruit production.
- Harvesting: Pick fruits when they reach a vibrant red color and feel firm but slightly soft when gently squeezed.
Why Choose Rutgers Tomato Plants?
- Classic heirloom flavor with a rich, tangy taste perfect for fresh and cooked dishes.
- Heavy yields of medium-sized tomatoes ideal for canning, sauces, and sandwiches.
- Determinate growth habit means a more compact plant that fits well in small gardens or containers.
- A dependable variety with disease resistance and a strong, consistent performance in most climates.
The Rutgers tomato plant is a tried-and-true favorite, delivering a bountiful harvest of flavorful tomatoes that suit a wide range of culinary uses. It’s the perfect addition for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.
Testimonials
My seedlings in a box were perfect. So sorry that most of your products are now sold out. Will definitely purchase again from this seller.
Samira · May 29, 2024
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Transplants arrived healthy…I was fortunate to receive more peppers than ordered. Thank you! Will purchase again!
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Still going absolutely loaded with blooms. I hope to stick them in a greenhouse and over winter them
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From our Farm to Yours
Matt's Patch offers a carefully curated selection of plants, seeds, seedlings, and produce. Our focus is on providing good food and easy-to-grow vegetable and flower varieties for both novice and experienced gardeners.
If we sell it - we've grown it - and this allows us to offer variety specific growing advice and cut plants from our selection that don't meet our standards. Check out the Garden Graveyard for a list of varieties we no longer offer.
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Plants want to grow. At Matt's Patch, we're committed to getting you from seed to sprout, plant to produce, and bulb to bloom.
To ensure the best gardening experience for all our growers we offer a money-back guarantee on all live plants if damaged in shipping, check-ins tailored to your growing zone, and a curated selection of the easiest-to-grow varieties.
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The first step to your gardening success is timing. To ensure you receive the healthiest plants and bulbs and have the absolute best chances at success, most of our products are available for pre-order and ship out according to your growing zone.
Seeds ship year-round.
