Early Red Chief Tomato

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist seed-starting mix kept at 70-75°F. Seedlings typically emerge in 5-10 days and need bright light (a grow light 2-3 inches above seedlings works well) to prevent leggy growth.

Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, then transplant after all danger of frost has passed and soil reaches 60°F. Plant at the spacing indicated (24 inches apart with 36 inches between rows) at the same depth they were growing in their containers, or slightly deeper to encourage additional root development.

Fruits are ready to pick when they develop full red color, typically 60-69 days after transplanting. Pick tomatoes when they reach their full 10-ounce size and feel slightly soft to gentle pressure. Harvest regularly throughout the season to encourage continued production. If frost threatens and fruits remain on the vine, harvest them at the breaker stage (when the first blush of color appears) and ripen them indoors on a windowsill.

Determinate varieties like Early Red Chief are naturally compact and require minimal pruning. You may remove lower leaves once plants are established to improve air circulation and reduce fungal disease risk, but avoid aggressive pruning that exposes fruit to sunscald.