When it comes to taste, looks, and an incredible ability to produce – the Red Torch tomato plant has it all – which is exactly why you need to consider growing this tomato variety that is becoming more and more popular in backyard gardens all over the country!
Among the wide variety of tomatoes available, the Red Torch tomato stands out for its unique look, taste, and growth habits. The plant’s tomatoes are a relatively new and unique hybrid variety known for their longer oval shape and striking coloration.
Unlike the typical round red tomato, Red Torch tomatoes ripen to vibrant red skins with streaks of golden yellow. The tomatoes are classified as “cocktail tomatoes” because of their size, typically measuring about 2 inches long and weighing around 1 to 2 ounces each. But as you will see below, there is much more to this tomato than its pretty looks!
Why You Need To Grow The Red Torch Tomato Plant
Where the Red Torch really thrives is in the flavor department! They have a balanced, sweet-tart taste with hints of citrus, making them perfect for fresh salads, roasting, or even eating straight off the vine. They are also wonderful for juicing as well.
The fruits have a firm texture and a high sugar content, giving them a big burst of flavor in every bite. Additionally, they have a high resistance to cracking, and are highly resistant to common blight and other viruses that often affect other tomato plants.
Red Torch tomatoes are classified as indeterminate, meaning they will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season until frost sets in. This, of course means you will have a nearly endless supply all summer long of delicious cocktail tomatoes right up until the first frost!
How To Grow Red Torch Tomato Plants
In terms of where you can grow Red Torch tomatoes, like most tomato plants, they thrive in warm, sunny conditions. They require full sun, meaning they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce a bountiful harvest. The plants are fairly drought-tolerant once established, but consistent watering is necessary to achieve the best fruit quality.
Although popular, finding ready to grow transplants of Red Torch can be difficult. For that reason, it is far better to grow your own from seed. The good news is that seeds are easy to find online and are easy to start and maintain. Affiliate Seed Link: Park Seeds Red Torch Tomato, Pack of 10 Seeds
To get a head start on the growing season and have your plants ready to take off, start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
Use seed-starting trays or small pots filled with a high-quality seed-starting mix. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and water them lightly. Place the trays in a warm spot. Tomato seeds germinate best at temperatures between 70°F and 80°F and usually sprout within 5 to 10 days.
Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots to encourage root development. Before moving them outdoors, harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week or two. This will greatly help to reduce transplant shock.
Planting in the Garden – Why You Need To Grow The Red Torch Tomato Plant
Once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F you can transplant your Red Torch tomato seedlings into the garden. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
Space the plants about 24 to 36 inches apart in rows, with 3 to 4 feet between rows to allow for good air circulation. This helps prevent fungal diseases which tomatoes are prone to in humid conditions. When planting, bury the seedlings deep enough so that the lowest set of leaves is just above the soil surface. This encourages the development of a stronger root system.
Water the newly transplanted tomatoes thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Supporting & Pruning – Why You Need To Grow The Red Torch Tomato Plant
Because Red Torch tomatoes are indeterminate, they will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season, making support essential.
The plants grow tall, often reaching 4 to 6 feet in height. Use tomato stakes, cages, or trellises, to keep the vines upright and prevent the fruits from touching the ground. See our article: The Best Materials To Tie Up Tomato Plants – How To Tie Up Tomatoes For Success!
Pruning is another important step to encourage healthy growth. Remove the lower leaves that touch the ground and any “suckers” that grow between the main stem and branches. Pruning helps improve airflow and allows light into the interior of the plant – both of which are very helpful for ripening.
Watering & Fertilizing – Why You Need To Grow The Red Torch Tomato Plant
Consistent watering is crucial for Red Torch tomatoes, especially during flowering and fruiting. Water deeply at the base of the plants once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. It’s better to water less frequently but deeply, rather than shallow, frequent watering. Deep watering helps drive roots deeper into the soil.
Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced tomato fertilizer or a compost tea to support ongoing growth and fruit production. However, be careful not to over-fertilize, as too much nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of fruit.
Harvesting Red Torch Tomatoes
Red Torch tomatoes typically mature in about 60 to 70 days after transplanting. The fruits are ready to pick when they are fully red with streaks of golden yellow and have a slight give when gently squeezed. For the best flavor, harvest the tomatoes when they are fully ripe but still firm.
To harvest, simply twist the tomato off the vine or use garden scissors to snip the stem. Be careful not to pull too hard, as this can damage the plant. Red Torch tomatoes are known for their excellent shelf life. They can be stored at room temperature for several days or in the refrigerator if needed to last longer
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