Super Fantastic Tomato

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost date. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix kept at 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds will germinate in 7 to 10 days. Provide bright light (grow lights or a sunny window) once sprouted to prevent leggy seedlings.

Transplant Super Fantastic outdoors only after your last frost date has passed and nighttime soil temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before final planting. Space transplants 24 inches apart with 36 inches between rows. Bury the stem up to the first true leaves to encourage a stronger root system.

Harvest Super Fantastic tomatoes when they reach full color and give slightly to gentle pressure, typically 70 to 79 days after transplanting. For maximum flavor, allow fruits to ripen fully on the vine until they have uniform color and a slight give when squeezed. You can pick tomatoes at the breaker stage (when the first blush of color appears) and let them finish ripening indoors if needed. Twist gently or use pruners to remove the fruit, leaving the calyx attached if possible. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production throughout the season.

As an indeterminate variety, Super Fantastic will benefit from selective pruning to manage its vigorous growth and direct energy into fruit production rather than excessive foliage. Pinch out suckers (shoots that grow between the main stem and branch) once the plant is established and flowering has begun. Remove lower leaves once the plant is 12 to 18 inches tall to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk. Avoid heavy pruning in extreme heat, as the foliage protects ripening fruit from sunscald.