Organic 'Roma' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the McKenzie seed company, a determinate, meaty variety ideal for sauces and preserves
The 'Roma' tomato is a classic and essential variety for gardeners looking for a meaty, low-juice, and very productive tomato , especially suited to processing. It produces elongated red fruits with dense, firm flesh , containing few seeds and very little juice , making it a top choice for tomato paste, sauces, purée, and canning .
With its determinate growth habit, the 'Roma' tomato forms compact and robust plants that concentrate their production over a relatively short period. This characteristic makes it ideal for gardeners wishing to harvest a large quantity of fruit at once, without the need for intensive staking. Its flavor is sweet, balanced, and pronounced , enjoyable even when eaten fresh.
A reliable and versatile variety, it adapts very well to cultivation in open ground as well as in large containers , while attracting bees and pollinators , thus promoting biodiversity in the garden.
Companion plants: Basil, Calendula, Dill, Garlic, Nasturtium, Onion, Parsley, Thyme, Asparagus
Enemy plants: Brassicaceae (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, etc.)
Spread/carry: Determinate, compact
Plant height: 60 to 90 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Open pollination
Physical seed type: Organic seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 40 to 50 seeds
Special features: Dense flesh, low juice content, ideal for canning, requires no staking.
Fruit color: Bright red
Texture/flavor: Firm, sweet, and concentrated flesh
Tolerances: Good resistance to Fusarium wilt and Verticillium wilt
Farming method
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow 6 mm (1/4 in) deep in a light potting mix and maintain consistent moisture. Germination usually occurs in 7 to 14 days .
Once the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches 15°C , gradually harden off the seedlings before transplanting. Plant in full sun (level 3) , in rich, loose, and well-drained soil. Space the plants 60 to 90 cm apart, with rows approximately 90 cm apart.
Even though the plant has a determinate growth habit and staking is not required , light support can be helpful when the plants are heavily laden with fruit. Maintain regular watering, equivalent to 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week , watering directly at the base of the plant.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvesting begins approximately 65 to 70 days after transplanting . The fruits can be picked when they are bright red and firm. Thanks to their dense flesh, they keep well after harvesting and are ideal for processing in large quantities.
Usage ideas
• Sauces and coulis
• Tomato paste
• Purées and preserves
• Drying
• Use fresh in cooking
The organic 'Roma' tomato from McKenzie seed company is a reliable choice for both amateur gardeners and home food enthusiasts. Productive, easy to grow, and perfectly suited for concentrated culinary uses, it remains a staple in the vegetable garden.
