Organic 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato Seeds (Solanum lycopersicum). Developed by Washington State University, this open-pollinated heirloom variety yields abundant red, meaty cherry tomatoes weighing approximately 1 oz. Gaia highlights their thick skin, resistance to cracking, and suitability for cooler regions. The description and back label identify the plant as determinate. One table cell nevertheless contains the word ‘indet.’ after the spacing; this source discrepancy is preserved transparently. Its early maturity and durable skin make it a practical choice for home gardens and market growers. Regular picking keeps the concentrated harvest easy to inspect and serve. For practical seed starting, growing from seed succeeds best when the verified product depth, moisture and temperature guidance is followed.
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Gaia lists germination in 5 to 10 days from 10 to 35°C, with an optimum of 23 to 29°C. Provide bright light immediately after emergence. During hardening off, reduce watering and nitrogen gradually without allowing plants to wilt. Transplant after frost risk has passed into warm, fertile, well-drained soil with 24 to 36 inches of spacing. A cage keeps fruit accessible and supports loaded stems. Water deeply at soil level after planting. Use the product details as a clear guide on how to start seeds while keeping the growing medium evenly moist, never saturated. For indoor seed starting, count back from local conditions and frost dates to decide when to start indoor seeds. Starting tomato seeds with steady warmth supports even emergence; move each tomato seedling into bright light promptly.
Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. Height varies in the source: the table lists 4 to 6 feet, while the back label lists 3 to 5 feet. Harvest after red fruit is fully ripe for peak flavour. Fruit that has begun turning red can finish ripening off the vine above 21°C. The packet contains approximately 25 organic seeds, lot GOGO702, with reported germination above 85%. The seeds are certified organic by Ecocert Canada. Arrange harvested fruit in a single layer to limit bruising.
Light and life cycle
In the garden
Exposure
Full sun
Life cycle
Annual garden crop; described as determinate by Gaia
Sowing and germination
Sowing guide
Sowing & germination
Sowing depth
Approximately 3 to 6 mm (1/8 to 1/4 in)
Spacing / density
61 to 91 cm (24 to 36 in) between plants
Germination temperature
10 to 35 °C (50 to 95 °F); stated optimum 23 to 29 °C (73.4 to 84.2 °F).
Germination time
5 to 10 days; the lot lists germination above 85%
Sowing period
Indoors 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting; transplant after all risk of frost
Propagation
Indoor sowing followed by transplanting
Growing method
For 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato, follow these sowing and growing guidelines for the variety. Start Washington Cherry indoors 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting. Sow approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep in light, pre-moistened seed-starting mix. Gaia lists germination in 5 to 10 days from 10 to 35°C, with an optimum of 23 to 29°C. Provide bright light immediately after emergence. Harden plants off by gradually reducing water and nitrogen without allowing wilt. Transplant with 24 to 36 inches of spacing and install a cage. Label the support Washington Cherry and lot GOGO702. Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. The description and back label identify the plant as determinate, although one table cell contains 'indet.' Height varies in the source: 4 to 6 feet in the table and 3 to 5 feet on the back label. Lot GOGO702 contains approximately 25 organic seeds with reported germination above 85%. This seed starting sequence supports reliable growing from seed while preserving the product-specific depth and temperature facts.
Soil and care
Soil and care
Soil & care
Soil pH
Approximately 5.5 to 7
Care level
Moderate
Soil type
This tomato prefers fertile, organic-matter-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of approximately 5.5 to 7. Incorporate mature compost before planting without using fresh manure. Avoid low areas where water remains around the roots and locations that recently grew tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, or tomatillos. Clean mulch applied after the soil warms helps stabilize moisture and limit soil splash onto foliage. Check moisture below the surface before watering again. Good air circulation supports steady growth.
Seasonal care
For ‘Washington Cherry’ Cherry Tomato, adjust seasonal care to the plant’s actual growth cycle. In spring, start Washington Cherry indoors, then harden plants off and transplant after frost risk has passed with a cage. In summer, water deeply at soil level, mulch after the soil warms, and check supports as clusters fill. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity. Harvest fully ripe red fruit regularly. Before frost, bring indoors fruit that has begun turning red. Remove diseased debris and rotate away from Solanaceae crops. Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. The description and back label identify the plant as determinate, although one table cell contains ‘indet.’ Height varies in the source: 4 to 6 feet in the table and 3 to 5 feet on the back label. Lot GOGO702 contains approximately 25 organic seeds with reported germination above 85%. The organic seeds are certified by Ecocert Canada. Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Gaia lists germination in 5 to 10 days from 10 to 35°C, with an optimum of 23 to 29°C.
Growing in containers
Container growing
Container growing
Recommended pot size
At least 30 L for one plant with a cage
Growing ‘Washington Cherry’ Cherry Tomato in a container requires suitable volume, drainage, and exposure. Grow one Washington Cherry plant in a container holding at least 30 L with several drainage holes and full sun. Use rich, well-drained potting mix and install a cage at planting. Check moisture daily in hot weather and water at soil level until excess drains. Do not leave the pot standing in a full saucer. The concentrated crop of a plant described as determinate requires a stable container as clusters become heavy. Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. The description and back label identify the plant as determinate, although one table cell contains ‘indet.’ Height varies in the source: 4 to 6 feet in the table and 3 to 5 feet on the back label. Lot GOGO702 contains approximately 25 organic seeds with reported germination above 85%. The organic seeds are certified by Ecocert Canada.
Growth and harvest
Size, flowering & harvest
Mature height
Source discrepancy: 1.2 to 1.8 m (4 to 6 ft) in the table; 0.9 to 1.5 m (3 to 5 ft) on the back label
Width / spread
Approximately 46 to 61 cm (18 to 24 in) according to Gaia
Flower color
Yellow
Foliage color
Green
Growth rate
Moderate
Growth habit
Determinate according to the description and back label; one table cell nevertheless contains ‘indet.’
Edible parts
Fully ripe fruit only
Bloom period
Successive small yellow flowers through the season; indeterminate growth extends flowering until cold weather Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons.
Fruiting
Prolific production of crack-resistant red fruit; approximately 60 days to maturity Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons.
Days to maturity
Approximately 60 days according to Gaia
Harvest
Harvest Washington Cherry tomatoes after they are red, fully ripe, and have expressed their complete colour. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and recommends full ripeness for peak flavour. Fruit that has begun turning red can finish ripening off the vine above 21°C. Harvest regularly to reduce the load on stems. Store whole fruit from 12 to 21°C at approximately 95% relative humidity as listed by Gaia and refrigerate cut portions promptly.
Garden companions
Garden associations
Companion plants & uses
Companion plants
Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, and dill before maturity Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. Adapt the layout to the mature size of neighbouring plants.
Plants to avoid
Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beet, fennel, peas, and squash
Garden use
In the garden, place ‘Washington Cherry’ Cherry Tomato according to its habit, vigour, and access for harvest. Grow Washington Cherry in full sun in a fertile, well-drained plot. Preserve 24 to 36 inches between plants and install a cage at transplanting. Gaia notes that this variety developed by Washington State University thrives in cooler regions. Water deeply at soil level and mulch after the soil warms. Keep easy access around the plant to harvest 1-oz red fruit without compressing clusters. Label the cage Washington Cherry and lot GOGO702. Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. The description and back label identify the plant as determinate, although one table cell contains ‘indet.’ Height varies in the source: 4 to 6 feet in the table and 3 to 5 feet on the back label. Lot GOGO702 contains approximately 25 organic seeds with reported germination above 85%. The organic seeds are certified by Ecocert Canada.
Recipe and storage
Recipe idea
From garden to table
Washington Cherry tomato salad — four servings. Rinse 500 g of fully ripe red tomatoes under potable water, then cut them in half. Toss with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup chopped basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Chill for 10 minutes, toss again, and serve. Refrigerate leftovers immediately in a covered container and use them within four days. For shelf-stable canning, use a tested recipe from a recognized food-safety authority. Washington Cherry is an open-pollinated organic heirloom cherry tomato. This variety was developed by Washington State University. Gaia describes prolific yields of meaty red fruit weighing approximately 1 oz. The thick skin resists cracking and makes ripe fruit easier to handle. The variety thrives in cooler regions and suits shorter growing seasons. Gaia lists approximately 60 days to maturity and a spread of 18 to 24 inches. The description and back label identify the plant as determinate, although one table cell contains ‘indet.’
Wildlife and pets
Wildlife & precautions
Not recommended for pets
Attracts or supports pollinators
Reported toxicity
Yes
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
How many 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato seeds are in the packet?
For ‘Washington Cherry’ Cherry Tomato, the packet information states: Approximately 25 seeds · lot GOGO702 · germination >85%. This wording preserves the commercial approximation when one is provided and helps plan the number of containers or the length of the row without turning an estimate into a guaranteed count. Keep the packet closed in a cool, dry, dark place until sowing time. Keep the label with the seedlings so the variety remains correctly identified throughout the season. Use clean containers and write the sowing date on a water-resistant label. Avoid exposing unused seed to moisture or large temperature swings.
How should I start 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato seeds in Canada?
For 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato, the stated sowing period is Indoors 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting; transplant after all risk of frost. The recommended method is Indoor sowing followed by transplanting, at a depth of Approximately 3 to 6 mm (1/8 to 1/4 in). Follow these product-specific directions and adjust timing to the average last-frost date in your area. Moisten the growing medium before placing the seed so the first watering does not displace it. Label every container and maintain even moisture without allowing standing water. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge to encourage balanced growth. For seed starting, label the cultivar and use the stated sowing depth instead of a generic estimate.
How long do 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato seeds take to germinate?
For 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato, the stated germination period is 5 to 10 days; the lot lists germination above 85%, with a germination temperature of 10 to 35°C; listed optimum of 23 to 29°C. Keep these conditions as steady as practical while allowing excess water to drain away. The temperature of the growing medium matters more than the surrounding air during this stage. Check moisture below the surface before watering again and avoid saturating the medium. Good air circulation helps young plants remain vigorous after emergence. Wait until the normal germination window has passed before assuming a seed will not emerge. The tomato seed germination time for 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato should be judged against the verified range above rather than a fixed national calendar. When growing from seed, keep conditions stable for the full stated germination window before disturbing the mix.
Where should I grow 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato in the garden?
For ‘Washington Cherry’ Cherry Tomato, the recommended exposure is Full sun. The stated spacing guideline is 61 to 91 cm (24 to 36 in) between plants. For container growing, the product record recommends: At least 30 L for one plant with a cage. Allow for the mature habit so neighbouring plants do not restrict light or access for harvest. Choose a site that is easy to water and leave enough room for air to circulate around the foliage. In a container, make sure several holes allow excess water to drain freely. A light mulch can steady moisture after the soil has warmed and plants are established.
When and how should I harvest 'Washington Cherry' Cherry Tomato?
For ‘Washington Cherry’ Cherry Tomato, the confirmed edible parts are: Fully ripe fruit only. Harvest them at the stage stated in the product record, then sort the crop before preparation. Some other parts of the plant may be toxic; use only the parts expressly identified as edible and keep the remainder away from children and animals. Use a clean tool and handle the harvest carefully to avoid unnecessary injury to the plant. Harvest in dry weather when practical and remove damaged portions promptly. Wash only the parts intended for the kitchen and refrigerate perishable produce promptly. Never eat a plant part whose identity or edibility is uncertain.