Determinate. Days to Maturity: 80 days from transplant
Rutgers VF Tomato is a classic, all-purpose heirloom variety prized for its rich flavor, dependable yields, and improved disease resistance. Originally developed in 1928 for the New Jersey tomato processors, it has remained one of the most popular canning tomato varieties for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Rutgers VF produces abundant, round, red fruits that average 6 to 8 ouncesperfectly sized for slicing, canning, or cooking. With resistance to Verticillium and Fusarium wilts, two common soil-borne diseases, it is a reliable performer in a wide range of growing conditions.
In the kitchen, Rutgers VF shines as a multi-purpose tomato. It is hands down one of the best tomatoes for canning and saucing due to its firm flesh and low moisture content. As an added bonus, its uniform size and smooth skin make it easy to peel and process. Rutgers VF is also renowned for its authentic tangy tomato taste that is often not found in the newer hybrid varieties.
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant into full sun after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart. Rutgers VF matures in about 70 to 80 daysfrom transplanting and, as a determinate variety, produces most of its fruit over a concentrated periodideal for preserving.
