Valencia Organic Tomato Guide
TO SOW
Valencia tomatoes grow best in warmer weather between 65°F-90°F. They do great in containers and small gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends transplanting.
If Direct Seeding
- Direct seed outside 2-3 weeks after last frost date; or
- Direct seed into a container 12-14 inches deep and wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 65°F-90°F; or
If Transplanting
Begin the growing season early and start the tomato seeds indoors in trays or pods 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Germination is best and fastest between 70°F-80°F. It can be transplanted outside 8 weeks later.
Sow 2-3 seeds ¼ inch deep and 24-36 inches apart with rows spaced 36 inches apart. Germination will take 5-14 days. Thin to one strong seedling if all seeds emerge to make sure there is no competition for space or nutrients.
TO GROW
Valencia tomatoes like well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They also love full sun and warm weather. Water regularly and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist. Do not let dry fully between watering - check the top 2-3 inches of soil and if it’s dry, then water it. Avoid watering from overhead or keeping roots soggy as this may lead to blossom-end rot.
Apply mulch to the top of the soil to retain moisture and deter weeds. Use aged compost, 5-10-10 fertilizer, or 18-18-21 tomato fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
TO REAP
Valencia tomatoes are full grown in in 76-80 days. Pick the cherry tomatoes when they are firm one by one or even better by the vine (keeps longer). Once established snip off leaves and small branches from the bottom 10 inches of the plant to reduce diseases and pests.
PESTS/DISEASES
Resistance to blight
Aphids, whiteflies, hornworms, fruit worms, cutworms – handpick or spray off, use plant collar or row covers, neem oil, insecticidal soap
Fusarium wilt, black spot, mosaic virus – do not handle plants after handling tobacco, don’t water from overhead or handle leaves when wet, remove affected parts
*Companion plant tomatoes with basil, chives, carrots, nasturtiums, marigolds, borage, squash, asparagus, and parsley. Avoid planting with the brassica family vegetables, corn, and kohlrabi. *
