Early Choice Red Tomato

Start seeds indoors 7 to 9 weeks before your last spring frost. Sow seeds in moist seed-starting mix kept at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds typically germinate in 5 to 10 days.

Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Plant at 24 inches apart in rows spaced 36 inches apart, burying the stem up to the first true leaves to encourage a stronger root system.

Harvest Early Choice Red tomatoes when they reach full red color and yield slightly to gentle hand pressure. Pick fruits 70 to 79 days after transplanting for peak flavor and ripeness. Twist and pull gently, or use pruners to avoid damaging the vine. The indeterminate habit means you'll be harvesting continuously throughout the season, so check plants every 2 to 3 days during peak production.

As an indeterminate tomato, Early Choice Red will benefit from selective pruning to manage its vigorous growth and improve airflow. Remove lower leaves once the plant is established to reduce disease pressure and improve circulation around the base. Prune suckers (shoots that emerge between the main stem and branches) to direct energy toward fruit production rather than excessive foliage, especially in humid climates. However, avoid over-pruning, which can expose ripening fruits to sunscald.