When Danny Swan of Grow Ohio Valley told us about this very rare Italian heirloom from Ohio, we got very excited to grow it on our farm. Heirloom seeds adapt to their regional growing conditions, and Ruby Red is the manifestation of a seed that performs exceedingly well in a region where it has been stewarded through generations. Hence, it wasn’t surprising to see that almost every single flower on its vines impressively held fruits in the heat and drought of August 2019.
Ruby Red has indeterminate, prolific vines with potato leaves. Large, pink fruits grow in clusters and have excellent flavor.
We extend our gratitude and thanks to Michael Mitchell of Wheeling, WV, for introducing this great tomato to us. We now have the opportunity to help preserve it and make it widespread among small farmers and home gardeners.
Our current seed stock was grown by our friends and amazing farmers of Mockingbird Hill Farm.
Commercially introduced by us
Packet has min. 25 seeds
GROWING NOTES
- Full sun
- Planting depth: 1/8″
- Sprouts in 4-5 days
- Ideal Growing Temperature: 75-90F
- Plant Spacing: 18-36″
- Frost hardy: No
- Growth habit: Indeterminate
- Leaf type: Potato
- Solanum lycopersicum
- Growing tips: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost in seed starting soil. Pot the seedlings up in week 3 in nutrient-rich potting soil. Transplant with a handful of organic fertilizer in planting hole.
Roger GB –
What about the acididy level
chance2012 –
Hey Roger. This variety is not too acidic but rather has a more balanced flavor.
donna (verified owner) –
Very slow start- late flowering small but tasty fruit.