Mr Fothergills Tomato Seeds - Red Cherry
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Product Information
Full details
For home gardeners seeking a reliable and flavorful tomato variety, Mr Fothergills Red Cherry Tomato Seeds offer a key benefit of heavy crops of sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes. A potential caveat is that indeterminate varieties require support. This product provides an easy-to-grow option for greenhouses, pots, or sunny garden beds, featuring seeds known for their sweetness and early cropping.
All features
| Model Part Number | 47536 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Mr Fothergill's |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the difference between determinate and indeterminate tomato plants?
Determinate tomatoes grow to a certain size, set fruit all at once, and then stop. Indeterminate tomatoes, like the Red Cherry variety, grow and produce fruit continuously throughout the season until stopped by frost. They require support as they grow into vines.
When should I sow Mr Fothergills Red Cherry seeds?
Sow seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost in your area. You can also sow directly into a greenhouse or warm, protected outdoor spot after the risk of frost has passed.
Do I need to stake these tomato plants?
Yes, the Red Cherry variety is indeterminate and grows as a vine. Staking, caging, or trellising is essential to support the plant and keep the fruit off the ground.
How often should I water my tomato plants?
Water regularly, especially when the weather is hot and dry. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering at the base of the plant is best to prevent fungal diseases.
Can I grow these tomato seeds in a small pot?
Yes, these seeds are suitable for pots, but ensure the pot is at least 30cm (12 inches) in diameter to allow for root growth and adequate moisture retention.
What are the benefits of growing your own tomatoes?
Growing your own tomatoes allows you to enjoy the freshest flavor, higher nutritional content, and the satisfaction of producing your own food. These Red Cherry tomatoes are noted as an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Troubleshooting
Seeds fail to germinate
Ensure seeds are sown at the correct depth, kept consistently warm (18-21°C), and the compost is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Seedlings are leggy and weak
Provide more light by placing seedlings in a sunnier spot or under grow lights. Ensure they are not kept too warm.
Plants are not producing fruit
Ensure plants are receiving adequate sunlight (at least 6-8 hours per day) and have been properly fed. Check for pollination issues if grown indoors without access to pollinators.
Fruit splitting
Inconsistent watering is a common cause. Ensure plants receive regular and even watering, especially during hot weather or when fruit is developing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Produces abundant, sweet cherry tomatoes.
- Early cropping helps ensure a good harvest.
- Adaptable to various growing environments (greenhouse, pots, garden beds).
- Provides healthy vitamins and antioxidants.
- Easy to grow for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Cons
- Indeterminate growth requires staking or other support.
- Specific sowing, growing, and harvesting times may vary per packet.
- Requires warm conditions and well-drained soil.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing:
- Sow seeds indoors in pots or trays filled with seed compost, typically 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
- Plant seeds about 0.5 cm deep and water gently.
- Provide a warm environment (around 18-21°C) for germination.
Growing:
- Once seedlings have a few true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or into their final growing position in a sunny garden bed or greenhouse.
- Ensure the soil is warm and well-drained.
- For indeterminate varieties like Red Cherry, provide sturdy support such as stakes, cages, or trellises as the plants grow.
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods, avoiding waterlogged soil.
Care:
- Feed plants with a high-potash fertilizer once the first fruits start to set.
- Pinch out side shoots that grow in the 'V' between the main stem and a leaf branch if you wish to encourage larger fruit, though this is often optional for cherry varieties.
Compatibility:
These seeds are suitable for growing in:
- Greenhouses
- Pots and containers (minimum 30cm diameter recommended)
- Sunny garden beds with well-drained soil
Harvesting:
Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. Regularly picking ripe fruit encourages the plant to produce more.