{"product_id":"rutgers-vf-tomato","title":"Rutgers VF Tomato","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrow the improved Rutgers VF Tomato\u003c\/strong\u003e, a disease-resistant version of the classic Rutgers variety that has been an American garden staple since the 1930s. These determinate plants produce abundant yields of smooth, 8-10 ounce red tomatoes with the traditional old-fashioned tomato flavor that made Rutgers famous. Enhanced with Verticillium and Fusarium wilt resistance, this variety delivers reliable performance even in challenging growing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowing Information\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDays to maturity: 75-85 days from transplant\u003cbr\u003ePlanting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost; transplant when soil temperature reaches 60°F and all frost danger has passed\u003cbr\u003eSpacing: 24-36 inches apart in rows 3-4 feet apart\u003cbr\u003eSun: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)\u003cbr\u003eSupport needed: Minimal – determinate plants grow 3-4 feet tall and benefit from cages or light staking\u003cbr\u003eZones: 3-11 (warm-season annual)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest \u0026amp; Use\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHarvest when tomatoes are fully red and slightly soft to gentle pressure. The medium-sized fruits have a rich, well-balanced flavor with firm, meaty texture that makes them incredibly versatile. Perfect for slicing fresh onto sandwiches, making classic BLTs, chopping for salads, or cooking into sauces and salsas. The firm flesh and excellent flavor make these ideal for canning, with many considering Rutgers the gold standard for canned tomatoes. Each compact plant produces 15-20 pounds of tomatoes in a concentrated harvest period. Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature for best flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRutgers VF tomatoes thrive in rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture and regular feeding. Water deeply and regularly at the base of plants, avoiding overhead watering to prevent disease. Mulch heavily to conserve moisture and prevent soil-borne diseases. The compact determinate habit requires minimal support – simple cages work well. Side-dress with compost every 3-4 weeks. Companion plant with basil, marigolds, or nasturtiums for natural pest management and enhanced flavor. The VF designation indicates resistance to Verticillium and Fusarium wilts, making this variety ideal for areas with soil-borne disease pressure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy Choose Rutgers VF Tomato\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis improved classic offers the beloved old-fashioned Rutgers flavor with added disease resistance for more reliable production. The determinate growth habit means a concentrated harvest perfect for canning and preserving projects. The balanced flavor and firm texture make this an excellent all-purpose tomato for fresh eating and cooking. As an open-pollinated variety, you can save seeds and maintain this dependable performer year after year. Whether you're seeking the traditional tomato flavor your grandparents grew or need a reliable variety for challenging growing conditions, Rutgers VF delivers consistent results that have made it an American garden standard for nearly a century.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Edenish Acres","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51509827666240,"sku":null,"price":3.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0873\/1462\/8928\/files\/RutgersVFTomatoHarvest.jpg?v=1770526168","url":"https:\/\/edenishacres.com\/products\/rutgers-vf-tomato","provider":"Edenish Acres","version":"1.0","type":"link"}