Rushmore Tomato

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix and keep soil temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide bright light (a grow light works well) as soon as seedlings emerge, and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, then transplant into the garden after your last frost date when soil has warmed. Space plants 24 inches apart with rows 36 inches apart. Plant slightly deeper than the nursery pot, burying the first set of true leaves if desired; tomatoes will root along the buried stem.

Pick fruit when fully red and slightly soft to gentle pressure, typically 70 to 79 days after transplanting. For peak flavor, harvest ripe tomatoes in the early morning. Cut or gently twist fruits from the vine rather than yanking, to avoid damaging branches. Rushmore's determinate nature means fruit ripens in concentrated flushes, so plan to harvest frequently during peak season.

Rushmore's determinate growth habit means minimal pruning is needed. Remove only the lowest leaves once the plant begins fruiting to improve air circulation and reduce fungal disease pressure; otherwise, allow the naturally bushy plant to develop full branching.