Organic 'Red Rose' Tomato
Organic 'Red Rose' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a perfect combination of robustness and flavor inherited from Brandywine
The 'Red Rose' tomato is a remarkable heirloom variety resulting from a cross between two giants: Rutgers , renowned for its exceptional resistance to disease and cracking, and Brandywine , celebrated for its velvety flesh and deep flavor. This union produced a highly productive indeterminate tomato, yielding magnificent dark pink fruits weighing between 170 and 280 g , with a rich and juicy texture. Their taste is sweet, complex, and perfectly balanced, reminiscent of the best of Brandywine but with the added robustness inherited from Rutgers.
'Red Rose' matures in approximately 75 days , providing a reliable and consistent harvest throughout the season. Its uniform foliage and generous yield make it an ideal variety for gardeners seeking a flavorful, traditional tomato that is less temperamental than Brandywine varieties. It excels both fresh in slices and in recipes where sweetness, color, and intense flavor are desired.
Companion plants : Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until mature)
Negative plants : Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Spread/Carry : Indeterminate, vigorous
Plant height : 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Brandywine x Rutgers cross, dark pink fruit, improved resistance, excellent flavor
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Plant the seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C to encourage rapid germination in 5 to 10 days . During hardening off, slightly reduce watering and nitrogen application to produce strong, well-formed seedlings.
Transplant when all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart and leave 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3) . Sturdy staking is necessary to support the heavy, abundant fruit.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has turned a deep pink and fully developed its aroma. To bring forward the harvest, pick the tomatoes at their first sign of color , then let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store them between 12 and 21°C with 95% relative humidity to maintain their silky texture.
Usage ideas
• Perfect in thick slices , ideal for sandwiches, burgers and summer salads
• Delicious for heirloom tomato platters , thanks to its deep pink color
• Excellent in hot dishes , stews or roasts
• Interesting in pink preserves , adding sweetness and aroma
The 'Red Rose' tomato is a marvel that combines the flavorful charm of great heirloom tomatoes with the modern robustness of a reliable variety. A superb option for gardeners wanting a tasty, productive, and remarkably well-balanced pink tomato.
