Tomato 'Roma VF

100 Seeds

'Roma VF' is a classic determinate plum tomato variety producing firm, elongated red fruits with thick flesh and few seeds. It is ideal for sauces, tomato paste, canning, cooking, drying, and fresh use. The VF designation means it has resistance to Verticillium Wilt (V) and Fusarium Wilt (F). In the Gulf region, it grows best during the cool season.

Best Planting Time

• August to November (ideal)
• A second planting is possible from January to early February in cooler Gulf areas.
• Avoid planting during late spring and summer due to extreme heat.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 2–4 hours before sowing to encourage quicker germination.
• Use fresh, high-quality seeds.

Soil Preparation

Tomatoes thrive in fertile, loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Sandy loam soil
• 30% Well-rotted compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–6.8

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds in seed trays or small pots.
• Plant seeds 0.5 cm deep.
• Cover lightly with fine soil.
• Keep the soil evenly moist until germination.
• Transplant seedlings when they are 4–6 weeks old and have 4–6 true leaves.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 22–28°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 18–30°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• During warm Gulf spring weather, provide light afternoon shade if temperatures exceed 35°C.

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist during germination.
• Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Maintain even watering to prevent fruit cracking and blossom-end rot.
• Water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves.

Germination Time

• 5–10 days

Plant Spacing

• 45–60 cm between plants.
• 75–90 cm between rows.

Harvest

• Harvest approximately 70–80 days after transplanting.
• Pick fruits when fully red and firm.
• Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.

Fertilization

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced tomato fertilizer.
• Increase potassium during flowering and fruit development for better fruit quality.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen after flowering.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow only during the cooler season.
• Although Roma VF is determinate, light staking or tomato cages help support heavy fruit clusters.
• Apply mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
• Water early in the morning.
• Ensure good air circulation around plants.
• Monitor for whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, tomato leaf miners, early blight, blossom-end rot, and powdery mildew.
• Even though it is resistant to Verticillium Wilt and Fusarium Wilt, rotating crops each season helps maintain healthy soil.