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Growing Riesenstraube Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To grow Riesenstraube tomatoes successfully, start indoors 7-9 weeks before your last spring frost date. Plant the seeds at a depth of about 0.25 inches in a well-draining, soilless grow media. Place the seed tray in a sunny location with a consistent temperature between 65-85°F for optimal germination. Once the seedlings have developed and outdoor conditions are suitable, transplant them into your garden plot, raised bed, or greenhouse. Ensure a spacing of 24 to 36 inches between plants, providing enough room for the indeterminate vines to sprawl. Riesenstraube tomatoes typically take 75-85 days from transplant to reach maturity.

As indeterminate cherry tomatoes, they continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season, so providing sturdy support structures like cages or trellises is essential to prevent sprawling. Pruning should be selectively employed to improve airflow and reduce disease risk by removing lower leaves that touch the ground and any yellowing or diseased foliage. Consistent and even moisture is crucial; avoid waterlogged soil by watering at the base of the plant using methods like soaker hoses or drip irrigation. Prior to transplanting, amend the soil with organic matter and provide a balanced fertilizer, considering an additional side-dressing as fruit begins to form. Companion planting with marigolds, basil, and nasturtiums can deter pests and promote a healthy garden ecosystem. Mulching around the plant's base helps conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Regular monitoring for typical tomato diseases is essential, with organic neem-based products available for pest control. Moreover, consider planting Riesenstraube tomatoes alongside vegetables like onions, carrots, and lettuce, which serve as helpful companions for pest control and contribute to a diverse and productive garden.

Harvesting Riesenstraube Tomatoes

Riesenstraube tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to produce fruit throughout the season, typically taking 75-85 days from transplant to reach maturity. To determine when to harvest these cherry-sized fruits, watch for their vibrant red color and slight softening, signaling ripeness. Harvesting is a simple process of gently grasping the ripe fruit and twisting it from the vine, taking care not to damage the plant. Since indeterminate varieties like Riesenstraube provide a prolonged harvest period, you can pick the fruit individually as they ripen, allowing for a steady supply of fresh tomatoes over an extended period. This practice also helps the plant direct more energy into producing new fruit, ensuring a bountiful and continuous harvest.

About Riesenstraube Tomato Garden Seeds

The Riesenstraube tomato variety has a rich history with German roots, as its name translates to "giant bunch of grapes" in German. This heirloom tomato has been cherished for generations and is renowned for its prolific clusters of small, cherry-sized fruits. While it wasn't specifically bred for a particular trait or growing climate, its adaptability and robust growth make it suitable for various gardening environments, including garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses.

The Riesenstraube's compact indeterminate plant structure is an appealing ornamental addition to gardens or patios, and its delightful, beefsteak-like flavor is well-loved by gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike. While this variety can thrive in various settings, its compact size makes it an excellent choice for container gardens and even large hanging baskets, allowing urban and space-limited gardeners to enjoy its flavorful bounty.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Encourage maximum fruit production by strategically pruning and training the plant. While indeterminate varieties like Riesenstraube can be allowed to sprawl, a controlled approach can enhance fruit quality. Once your Riesenstraube plant has several flower clusters, consider pinching off the growing tips of the main stems. This encourages the plant to direct more energy into existing fruit clusters, resulting in larger, more flavorful tomatoes. Additionally, use a sturdy trellis or support system to keep the plant's branches off the ground. As the clusters of small tomatoes develop, thin them slightly by removing some of the smaller fruit, allowing the remaining ones to grow larger and more flavorful. This method can lead to a more abundant and delicious harvest."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Riesenstraube 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 Riesenstraube Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.