Tomato Seeds - Slicing - Aunt Ruby's German Green
80 Days to maturity (from transplant). Solanum lycopersicum. Aunt Ruby’s German Green Tomato Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, indeterminate, slicing tomato. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. A large green beefsteak with delicious sweet spicy flavor 12-16 oz. light green when ripe with a tint of yellow and a pink blush underneath. Originally from Germany, these were perfected by Ruby Arnold of Greenville, Tennessee. ~7,500 seeds/oz.
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Growing Aunt Ruby's Green German Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden
To cultivate Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes, begin by sowing the seeds indoors 7-9 weeks before the last anticipated spring frost. Plant the seeds at a depth of approximately 0.25 inches in well-draining, loose soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 6.2 to 6.8. These indeterminate, slicing tomatoes thrive in full sun, so ensure they receive adequate sunlight. After 7-10 days of germination, when the seedlings have developed sufficient size and strength, transplant them outdoors. Choose a transplant date after the danger of frost has passed, typically when the weather is consistently warm. When transplanting, maintain a spacing of 24-36 inches between individual plants and rows to accommodate the sprawling growth habit of these vigorous tomatoes.
Throughout the growing process of Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes, regular maintenance is crucial. Indeterminate in nature, these tomatoes benefit from sturdy support structures like cages or trellises to manage their sprawling vines. Regular pruning of excess foliage promotes better air circulation and reduces the risk of diseases. Companion planting with basil, marigolds, or nasturtiums can help deter pests and enhance overall growth. Consistent watering, particularly during dry spells, and a well-balanced organic fertilizer application can contribute to healthy plant development and fruit production.
Harvesting Aunt Ruby's Green German Tomatoes
Determining the optimal time for harvesting Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes involves closely monitoring the fruit's color and feel. When the tomatoes reach a size of 12-16 ounces and display a light green hue with a hint of yellow and a pink blush underneath, they are ready for picking. The indeterminate nature means that the plant will continually produce fruit throughout the season, allowing for a staggered harvest. Gently twist or cut the ripe tomatoes from the vine, taking care not to damage the plant. Harvesting can extend well into the growing season.
About Aunt Ruby's Green German Tomato Garden Seeds
Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes have a rich history, originating from seeds brought over by a German immigrant, but then cultivated and made famous by Ruby Arnold in Tennessee. The variety is cherished for its unique characteristics, including large, flavorful, green beefsteak fruits. Its introduction to new regions has made it a favorite among gardeners and tomato enthusiasts alike.
While the specific breeding goals may not be explicitly documented, Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes are valued for their exceptional taste and attractive appearance. Bred over time through open pollination, this heirloom variety has likely adapted to various growing conditions.
These tomatoes are ideal for slicing due to their substantial size and deliciously sweet, spicy flavor. With fruits weighing between 12-16 ounces, Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also versatile, suitable for fresh eating, slicing on sandwiches, or incorporating into culinary creations like sauces and soups.
While Aunt Ruby's German Green tomatoes can be grown in containers, their indeterminate nature and potential size make them better suited for larger containers or raised beds. Hanging baskets may not provide sufficient support for the sprawling vines and large fruits, so it's recommended to cultivate them in well-supported containers.
Tips From Our Gardeners
"To enhance fruit quality, consider providing consistent, deep watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot and fruit cracking. Additionally, placing reflective mulch around the plants can optimize sunlight exposure and contribute to more robust growth."
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- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer |
Other Resources
Aunt Ruby's Green German Tomato Seeds Per Package:
- 1 gram - Approximately 250-275 Seeds
- 1 oz - Approximately 7,500 Seeds
- 4 oz - Approximately 30,000 Seeds
- 1 lb - Approximately 120,000 Seeds
- 5 lb - Approximately 600,000 Seeds
Non-GMO Aunt Ruby's Green German Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
Basic Info
| Latin Name: | Solanum lycoperscium (previously Lycopersicon esculentum) |
| Tomato Type: | Slicing - Larger, round tomatoes, the size of your fist or larger. |
| Aunt Ruby’s German Green Tomato Color: | Green |
| Aunt Ruby’s German Green Tomato Flavor: | Sweet with a spicy touch |
Growing Info
| Hardiness Zone: | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Annual: Not intended to overwinter |
| Days to Maturity: | 80 (from transplant) |
| Days to Germination: | 7-10 |
| Seeding Depth: | 0.25 inch |
| Plant Spacing: | 24-36 inches |
| Row Spacing: | 36 inches |
| Plant Height: | 36-96 inches |
| Growth Habit: | Indeterminate - Indeterminate tomatoes are vine-type plants that sprawl (requiring a cage or trellis to support them) and continue to grow throughout the season. Indeterminate tomato plants will continue to produce tomatoes for the rest of the season, so you can harvest continually. |
| Soil Preference: | Well-draining, loose (sandy loam), slightly acidic (6.2 to 6.8), and moisture retaining. Too much nitrogen in the soil may lead to more foliage production and less fruiting. Tomatoes like more phosphorus and potassium than other vegetables. |
| Temperature Preference: | Warmer (70-85 F) |
| Light Preference: | Full Sun |
Other
| Direct Sow: | No |
| Start Indoors: | Yes Start Indoors 7-9 weeks before your last spring frost date. |
| Plant Width: | 24 inches |
| Plant Spread: | 24 inches |
| Growth Speed: | Mid - Ready to harvest 70 to 80 days from transplant. Tricky to get a tomato by the 4th of July with these varieties. They are good mid-summer producers for most USDA Zones. |
| Germination Temperature: | 65-85 F |
| Pests and Diseases: | Common pests known to harm tomato plants, in general, include the tomato hornworm, cutworm, aphids, flea beetles, tomato fruit worms, and whiteflies. Also, watch for common diseases such as blossom end rot, fusarium wilt, powdery mildew, verticillium wilt, late blight, bacterial canker/spot, and tobacco mosaic virus. Most of these can be prevented by maintaining a regular watering schedule and avoiding overwatering. Regularly check your plants for pest damage throughout the season. For treating pest and disease problems, we recommend using an organic neem-based product. |
| Garden Size: | Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed |
| Tomato Use: | Slicing, salsa verde, and canning. |