Rocky Top Tomato Seeds

Days to Maturity: 75 from transplant

Determinate

Gardeners in harsh northern climates and poor soil areas report that Rocky Top is often the only tomato they can grow successfully. This widely-adapted beefsteak is nothing short of a godsend in inhospitable climates, and also a favorite among those looking for a determinate beefsteak that delivers high yields every time.

The fruit is bright red, rounded, and smooth—a classic look in tomatoes. It weighs in at about 7 to 7½ ounces, and arises in clusters (those famous "vine-ripened" clusters the supermarket wants us to pay so much extra for). No green shoulders here; these tomatoes always look newly polished and perfectly formed. They are somewhat smaller than traditional big beefsteaks, but they more than make up for that in number and in the rich, acidic, satisfying flavor packed into every medium-sized package.

Part of their beauty comes from the great vigor and disease resistance of the plant. Rocky Top is highly resistant to fusarium wilt races 0-2, verticillium wilt, and gray leaf spot. This means less foliage damage and much less fruit loss. Big, healthy plants with good branching and plenty of flowers produce a large crop you can count on.

Particularly well suited to the northeast, Rocky Top is a favorite from north to south and east to west. It accommodates whatever climate it finds itself in, and manages to bear heavily under a huge range of conditions. If you have just moved to a new area, are still breaking in your soil, or are a new gardener, Rocky Top is the tomato you want this year.

Start seeds indoors 5 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant outdoors when danger of frost is past and night temperatures consistently remain above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If an unexpected late frost is forecasted, protect young plants with plastic sheeting or other cover. Set plants 2 to 2½ feet apart.