Salvaterra's Select is an award-winning open-pollinated heirloom tomato from Hazelton, Pennsylvania, grown since the 1950s. This indeterminate variety is prized for its sweet, zingy flavor and meaty texture, making it ideal for sauces, pureeing, and canning. Seeds germinate readily in warm soil (70-85°F) within 6-14 days and require consistent moisture for optimal germination.
Before sowing
No pre-treatment needed — sow directly.
Heirloom tomato seeds do not require pre-soaking or pre-treatment.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Use a heat mat to maintain soil temperature between 75-85°F for fastest, most consistent germination. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—cover trays with plastic or a humidity dome until seeds emerge, then remove to prevent fungal diseases. Light is not necessary during germination but becomes critical once seedlings emerge; provide bright light immediately after sprouting. Plant seeds 1/4 inch (approximately 6mm) deep and gently press soil on top for good seed-to-soil contact. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Do not transplant seedlings outdoors until 2 weeks after the last frost date. Pot up to 3-4 inch pots when first true leaves develop and harden off plants for 1-2 weeks in full sun before transplanting outside.
Sources: Tim's Tomatoes, Deep Harvest Farm, Seed Savers Exchange, Rohrer Seeds, agrr.net, Blooming Expert, West Coast Seeds, RHS
