Cherry Tomato Seeds - Small Red Cherry Heirloom - Lycopersicon esculentum

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Grows as a warm-season annual across all zones. Tomatoes are extremely sensitive to cold and will be killed by even a light frost.

Best performance in Zones 3-10 where long, warm summers provide ideal growing conditions.

Northern Zones (2-5) - Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Do not transplant outdoors until all danger of frost has passed and night temperatures are consistently above 50F.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Plant in early spring for a summer harvest. In desert regions with extreme heat, some afternoon shade can prevent stress. Can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil for germination. Sow seeds after the soil has warmed to at least 70F, with optimal soil temperature of 75-85F.

Growing Season - Requires 60-70 days from transplant to first harvest, making it a relatively quick-producing tomato that's suitable for all zones with proper planting times.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Tomatoes are very sensitive to cold, so do not plant outdoors until all danger of frost has passed and night temperatures are consistently above 50F.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require rich, well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 is ideal.

Starting Seeds Indoors:

Fill seed starting trays or pots with a high-quality, sterile seed starting mix.

Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep.

Water to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Place the trays in a warm, sunny location or on a heat mat.

Once seedlings emerge, provide plenty of light to prevent them from becoming leggy.

Transplanting Outdoors:

Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting to acclimate them to outdoor conditions.

Space plants 24-36 inches apart in the garden bed. Dig a hole and plant the seedling deep, burying up to two-thirds of the stem to encourage a stronger root system.

Install a stake, cage, or trellis at the time of planting to support the vining plant as it grows.

Water thoroughly after transplanting.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent and deep watering, especially during flowering and fruiting. Inconsistent watering can lead to blossom end rot or fruit cracking.

Fertilizing: Amend the soil with compost before planting. Use a balanced tomato or vegetable fertilizer every 3-4 weeks once the plants begin to flower.

Pruning: Pruning the lower leaves and some suckers (shoots that grow between the main stem and a leaf branch) can improve air circulation and direct energy to fruit production.

Harvesting: Harvest fruit when it is a uniform red color and feels firm but slightly soft to the touch. The more you pick, the more the plant will produce.