LARGE RED CHERRY HEIRLOOM TOMATO STARTS

The vigorous vines of the Large Red Cherry Tomato yield an abundance of bright red, half-dollar-sized fruits weighing about 1 ounce each. With a sweet, juicy flavor and uniform size, these tomatoes are a favorite among both commercial growers and home gardeners. They are disease-resistant and take approximately 75 days to mature. This is an indeterminate variety.

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The Large Red Cherry Tomato is a 19th-century heirloom from the Ben Quisenberry collection. Ben Quisenberry, a dedicated seed saver and farmer, worked tirelessly to preserve heirloom vegetables and ensure their survival for future generations.

Transplanting Seedlings:

1. Timing: Transplant Large Red Cherry Heirloom Tomato seedlings in Pendleton Oregon once the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F and all danger of frost has passed. Tomatoes thrive in warm conditions and require a frost-free growing season.
2. Preparation: Choose a sunny location with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Incorporate compost or aged manure into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients.
3. Spacing: Space seedlings 24-36 inches apart, with rows 36-48 inches apart. Proper spacing ensures adequate airflow, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
4. Planting Depth: Remove the lower sets of leaves from the seedlings and bury the stem up to the next set of leaves. This encourages the development of a stronger root system, leading to a healthier plant.
5. Watering: Water thoroughly after transplanting to help establish the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as tomatoes prefer well-drained soil.
6. Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
7. Support: Install a cage, trellis, or stake at the time of planting to support the plant as it grows and to keep the fruit off the ground, preventing rot.
8. Feeding: Feed the plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced or tomato-specific fertilizer to promote strong growth and abundant fruiting.

Growing Cherry Tomatoes in Pendleton Oregon: Indeterminate tomato varieties like the Large Red Cherry thrive with proper support, such as a trellis or cage, which protects the vines from pests and diseases caused by soil contact. Install supports early, before the vines begin to grow, and tie the stems to the supports as needed to promote healthy development. Since temperatures below 55°F can hinder production, take precautions to protect the plants in cooler weather. Apply a thick layer of mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds, and water deeply once a week, avoiding wetting the leaves. Pruning “suckers”—the shoots that grow between the main stem and branches—can boost production and plant strength.

Harvesting: Check ripeness by gently pressing the tomatoes; the flesh should give slightly, and their vibrant red color indicates they are ready. If the stem resists detaching easily, use scissors to cut it. While vine-ripened tomatoes have the best flavor, harvest all fruit—green or ripe—before the first frost. Green tomatoes will ripen indoors if kept in a warm place out of direct sunlight.