Rutgers

Tomato

85d to harvest

Sun-warmed, richly meaty Rutgers tomatoes bring a classic beefsteak presence to the garden—deep, true red with a succulent, seed-filled interior and a pleasantly firm bite. Their flavor leans balanced and savory, with a gentle sweetness that shines whether you’re building bold sauces or letting slices stand on their own. Grow Rutgers for dependable midsummer harvests and a hearty, kitchen-ready abundance that rewards attentive watering and steady sun.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jul 10th
Harvest Begins	Oct 3rd
Harvest Ends	Sep 1st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Determinate
Support Needed	Cage
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Blue Spice Basil Basil

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

Chantenay Red Core Carrot

Flat Leaf Splendor Parsley

Australian Outback Basil

Danvers Carrot

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Rutgers tomatoes during their main growing phase?

During active fruiting, keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week depending on heat and rainfall. Water deeply 1–3 times per week rather than small daily sips to keep moisture steady and reduce blossom-end rot and fruit cracking. If the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil dries out, it’s time for a deep watering.

How do I know when Rutgers tomatoes are ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits are fully colored for the variety and feel firm but slightly springy when gently squeezed. If you see a green shoulder at the stem end, give them a few more days—tomatoes finish color after the first blush. For best flavor, pick in the cooler part of the day and leave the fruit on the plant until it reaches its final red stage.