Golden Roma Tomato

Begin seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Sow seeds in seed-starting mix kept warm around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 5 to 10 days.

Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 2 to 3 true leaves and all frost danger has passed. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before planting in the garden. Space plants 24 inches apart with rows 36 inches apart.

Pick fruits when they reach full golden yellow color; unlike red tomatoes, these won't continue ripening noticeably after picking, so wait until they're fully colored on the vine. For sun-drying, harvest when mature and allow fruits to dry on screens in a warm, dry location with good air circulation until they're leathery and concentrated. For fresh eating or sauces, harvest at peak color and use immediately or refrigerate.

As an indeterminate variety, Golden Roma will benefit from selective pruning to manage vigor and improve air circulation. Pinch off the lowest leaves once the plant is established to reduce soil-borne disease pressure. You can remove some of the dense interior foliage in midsummer to expose developing fruit to sunlight, which deepens color and flavor, but avoid stripping too much foliage at once.