Monica

Tomato

Zone 4b Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Determinate

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, Monica paste tomatoes ripen to a deep, glossy red that feels almost lacquered in the garden. Thei…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 25th
Last Frost	May 13th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jul 8th
Harvest Begins	Sep 21st
Harvest Ends	Sep 27th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
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)	8

Recommended Companions

Italian Large Leaf Basil

Flat Leaf Plain Parsley

Cosmic Purple Carrot

Nantes Coreless Carrot

Laguna Carrot

Dragon Carrot

Frequently Asked Questions

What disease is most common on Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) in home gardens, and how can I prevent/treat it?

Early blight is a common problem on tomatoes, showing as dark, concentric “target” spots on older leaves that spread upward and can reduce fruit set. Remove and discard infected leaves as soon as spots appear, improve airflow by spacing plants, and water at the soil line to keep foliage dry. If the disease keeps progressing, apply a labeled fungicide for tomatoes and reapply according to the product directions.

How often should I water Solanum lycopersicum during the main growing phase to avoid fruit issues?

During active flowering and fruit growth, keep the soil evenly moist—about 1–1.5 inches of water per week, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Water deeply 1–2 times per week rather than light daily watering, and aim to prevent the soil from drying out completely between waterings. Inconsistent moisture is a major trigger for blossom-end rot and cracking, so use mulch to steady soil moisture.

How do I know when my Solanum lycopersicum is ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits are fully colored for the variety and the flesh yields slightly to gentle pressure (not rock-hard). For the best flavor, pick at peak ripeness—tomatoes typically take about 60–75 days from transplant depending on conditions. If night temperatures drop or frost threatens, harvest the turning fruits and ripen them indoors away from direct sun.

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, Monica paste tomatoes ripen to a deep, glossy red that feels almost lacquered in the garden. Their dense, meaty flesh is low in gel and seeds, with a firm, spoonable texture that holds its shape beautifully for thick sauces and hearty roasting—ideal for preserving flavor at its most concentrated. Grow Monica for a dependable 75-day rhythm and a harvest that tastes as bold as it looks.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 8 days first.

Expert Note

Start seeds indoors at least 7 weeks before the last frost, then transplant only when soil is reliably 60°F+ to prevent cold-stunt in thick-walled Roma types.