Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF

Growing Czech Bush Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Czech Bush Tomatoes, begin by starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date. Sow the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches in well-draining, loose soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.2 to 6.8. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days at temperatures between 65-85°F. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and the threat of frost has passed, usually after the last spring frost date, they can be transplanted outdoors. Choose a warm and sunny location in the garden, raised bed, greenhouse, or even a container with sufficient space for the plants to spread. Plant them with a spacing of 20-24 inches apart in rows spaced 36 inches apart. As determinate tomatoes, Czech Bush plants have a more compact growth habit, so they may not require staking. However, providing support can help keep the heavy fruit off the ground and prevent rot. With proper care, these sturdy, low-growing plants will produce heavy yields of round, red 4 oz. fruits in approximately 70 days from transplanting.

Throughout the growing process, it's essential to provide consistent care to Czech Bush Tomatoes to ensure optimal growth and fruit production. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as tomatoes require consistent moisture to develop properly. Additionally, regular pruning of any suckers that develop in the leaf axils can help promote airflow and reduce the risk of disease. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Companion planting with basil, parsley, and marigolds can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects that prey on common tomato pests. Finally, providing adequate support, such as stakes or cages, can help support the heavy fruit and prevent the plants from sprawling. Regularly monitor the plants for signs of pests or disease and take appropriate action promptly to maintain plant health and productivity.

Harvesting Czech Bush Tomatoes

Czech Bush Tomatoes are determinate varieties, meaning they set fruit all at once and have a relatively short harvest window. Determining the optimal time for harvesting involves observing the fruit's color and feel. When the tomatoes reach a vibrant red color and are firm to the touch but still yield slightly to pressure, they are usually ready for harvest. The fruit should also easily detach from the vine with a gentle twist or pull. Harvesting should be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant or the fruit. Simply grasp the tomato firmly and twist it gently until it separates from the stem. Use a sharp pair of garden shears if necessary to avoid damaging the plant. It's essential to harvest tomatoes promptly once they reach maturity to prevent overripening or splitting, especially in determinate varieties where the fruit ripens simultaneously. Regular harvesting also encourages the plant to continue producing more fruit throughout the season.

About Czech Bush Tomato Garden Seeds

The Czech Bush Tomato, also known as Scarlet Beefsteak or Red Cushion, has a rich history tracing back to its origins in Czechoslovakia. The original seeds were sent to Mr. Quisenberry in 1976 by Milan Sodomka, a gardener from Czechoslovakia. This variety is cherished for its stakeless, sturdy, low-growing plants that produce abundant yields of round, red 4 oz. fruits. Its unique rugose foliage adds to its attractiveness in the garden.

Czech Bush Tomatoes were likely bred for specific traits, including compact growth habit, heavy fruit production, and adaptability to various growing conditions. Its determinate nature suggests it was possibly developed for gardeners seeking a variety with a shorter harvest window and a more manageable size. While it may not have been explicitly bred for a particular climate, its robust characteristics make it suitable for cultivation in a wide range of climates and growing environments.

This tomato variety is not only prized for its productivity and flavor but also for its versatility in garden settings. Due to its compact growth habit and manageable size, Czech Bush Tomatoes are excellent candidates for container gardening, making them ideal for small spaces, balconies, or patios. Additionally, their low-growing nature makes them suitable for hanging baskets, providing an unconventional yet visually appealing way to grow tomatoes.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Try incorporating companion planting with aromatic herbs like basil or marigolds. These companion plants not only enhance the garden's aesthetics but also deter common pests that can affect tomato plants. Basil, for instance, repels insects like aphids and whiteflies, while marigolds discourage nematodes in the soil. Intercropping Czech Bush Tomatoes with these herbs can create a natural barrier against pests, promoting healthier growth and higher yields without the need for chemical interventions."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Czech Bush Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 65 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Approximately 1,700 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 6,800 Seeds
• 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 27,200 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 108,800 Seeds

Non-GMO Czech Bush Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.