Fourth of July' Tomato (Lycopersicon)

Enjoy the fresh taste of tomatoes earlier in the gardening season by growing 'Fourth of July'. The 'Fourth of July' Tomatoes are one of the earliest to ripen, as the name indicates, you should have fruit by the 4th of July! These smooth skinned fruits reach about 4 ounces in size and are a deep red color. Even though they are an early variety, you will be harvesting tomatoes well into late summer. Tomato plants prefer to be grown in a full sun location and need at least one inch of water a week. We recommend staking or caging your plants for the healthiest fruit. Tomatoes not only can be planted in the garden, but are also a great patio container plant. Tomatoes can be harvested once they start to turn color, they will continue to ripen even after they are picked. The longer they can stay on the vine, the tastier they will be. 'Fourth of July' Tomatoes can be stored on the counter in indirect sunlight for up to 3 days. To slow the ripening process down tomatoes can be refrigerated but may lose some of their flavor. This variety is great for slicing and can also be canned, frozen, or dried.