Growing Conditions

• Soil: Roma tomatoes thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure at planting time.
• Watering: Water plants at the base, providing at least 1 inch of water per week, to avoid leaf wetness and potential disease.
• Fertilizing: Add 1 ounce of high-phosphorus fertilizer (5-10-10) at planting. Reapply fertilizer when fruit begins to develop and again when harvesting starts.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and stabilize soil temperature.
• Harvesting and Storage
• Ripeness: Harvest when tomatoes are fully red and slightly soft when squeezed.
• Method: Use scissors or gently twist fruits from the vine to avoid damaging the plant.
• Storage: Store at 45-60¡F for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating fully ripe tomatoes to maintain flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

• Support: While Roma tomatoes generally donÕt require heavy staking, a small cage or stake can keep the fruit clean and accessible.
• Companion Planting: Plant tomatoes with basil, onions, or carrots for beneficial interactions, but avoid planting near cabbage or potatoes.
• Pollination: Roma tomatoes are self-pollinating, but gently shaking the plant can help set fruit if pollinators are sparse.