Mountain Gold Tomato

Start seeds indoors 7-9 weeks before your last spring frost. Maintain soil temperature around 70-75°F for optimal germination. Transplants are ready to move outdoors once they've developed true leaves and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 55°F.

Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant outdoors after the last frost date when soil temperature reaches at least 60°F, though 65-70°F is ideal for vigorous growth. Space transplants 24 inches apart in rows spaced 36 inches apart. Bury transplants slightly deeper than their container depth to encourage a stronger root system.

Pick fruits when they reach full orange color and yield slightly to gentle pressure, typically 70-79 days after transplanting. The 3.5-inch fruits should feel firm but not hard. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production, or allow fruits to fully mature on the vine if you prefer peak sweetness and are not concerned about concentrated harvest timing. The excellent holding quality means fruits remain firm and store well after picking.

Determinate varieties like Mountain Gold require minimal pruning since their growth naturally concludes at a fixed height. Remove only damaged, diseased, or dead branches. Unlike indeterminate types, avoid aggressive sucker removal, as determinate plants produce fewer branches and heavy pruning reduces overall fruit production.