Roma Plum Tomato

Solanum lycopersicum – “Roma”

Roma tomatoes are highly valued for their use in tomato sauces and pastes, as they yield a plentiful harvest of thick-walled, meaty, bright red, egg-shaped fruits that are roughly 3 inches long and contain minimal seeds. Due to their firm, dense flesh and thick skin, Romas are the ideal tomato for cooking down into a hearty sauce, which has earned them the nickname “paste tomatoes.”

Growing Healthy Plants

As with all tomatoes, Roma thrives in warm weather conditions and should be planted in the ground after the threat of frost has passed. The soil temperature should remain consistently above 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 18°C) for optimal growth. If necessary, you can warm the soil using black plastic a few weeks prior to planting.

Tomatoes require a location that receives full sun, meaning an average of at least six hours of sunlight per day. In hot climates however, dappled shade may be sufficient.

For optimal growth, it is recommended to plant tomatoes deeply, ideally as deeply as possible. This is because buried portions of the plant stem have the potential to develop roots, resulting in stronger and more robust plants.

Roma is an indeterminate tomato variety, meaning that it will continue to produce fruit throughout the season until frost kills the plant. Due to this nature, the plants have the potential to grow to a significant size. Therefore, it is crucial to provide adequate space by planting them at least 36 inches apart and providing support, such as cages or stakes, early in the season. This not only prevents overcrowding but also helps to ensure good air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases. To avoid blossom end rot, it is also essential to water the plants thoroughly during prolonged dry spells.

Cultural Details