Roma Tomatoes

• Semi-Determinate
• 70 - 80 days
• Full Sun
• Sprouts in 7-14 Days
• Ideal Temperature: 75-95 Degrees F
• Seed Depth: 1/8 inch
• Plant Spacing: 24"
• Frost Hardy: No
• Solanum lycopersicum

Roma refers to a group of tomato varieties that are the prime choice for sauces and canning. They have less moisture content than other, juicier tomato varieties such as beefsteak tomatoes. Romas have a thick fruit wall and skin, firm and dense flesh, and they have fewer seeds. These properties make them an ideal tomato type for cooking down, which has also earned them the name paste tomatoes.
What makes Roma tomato varieties stand out is their elongated, egg-like shape, which in some varieties is pear- or plum-shaped. Roma type tomatoes don’t get very big, only about 3 inches long. The skin is usually bright red, although new hybrids are being introduced in a variety of other colors.
As with all tomato varieties, the plants are highly sensitive to cold damage so wait to plant out until after danger of frost has passed. Roma tomatoes are self-pollinating so you only need one plant and pollinating insects aren’t required for fruiting. However, insects and wind move the process of pollination along. Attracting beneficial insects such as natural predators can also help keep pests such as the tomato hornworm under control.