Solanum lycopersicum 'Rosso Sicilian' is a classic Italian heirloom tomato from Sicily, introduced to the United States in 1987. The variety produces deeply ribbed, bright red fruits weighing up to 6 ounces with thin skin and firm, meaty flesh ideal for sauces, paste, and cooking. Germination requires warm soil temperatures (65-85°F) and consistent moisture; seeds typically emerge in 6-14 days under optimal conditions with bottom heat.
Before sowing
No pre-treatment needed — sow directly.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Use a heating mat to maintain soil temperature at 75-80°F for fastest and most uniform germination. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in sterile, well-draining seed starting mix. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—avoid wet conditions that promote rot. Seeds do not need light to germinate; cover with plastic or a humidity dome until germination begins. Once seedlings emerge, provide bright light (14-16 hours daily) to prevent leggy growth. Use bottom watering to protect delicate seedlings from damping off. Maintain soil temperature at 75-85°F during germination, then reduce to 70°F after emergence. Avoid overcrowding; pot up seedlings into 3-4 inch pots when first true leaves develop, burying stems to the lowest leaves to promote strong roots. No pre-soaking or scarification required.
Sources: Annie's Heirloom Seeds, Murray Seed Co, Restoration Seeds, Seed Savers Exchange, Epic Gardening, Home for the Harvest, Farm to Jar
