Description
Solanum lycopersicum ‘Cherry Roma’ is a compact, highly productive tomato variety that combines the small size of a cherry tomato with the elongated shape and dense flesh of Roma types. Plants are typically determinate to semi-determinate, growing 90 to 120 cm tall, and produce abundant clusters of small, oval, bright red fruits. The tomatoes have thick walls, low moisture content, and a rich, mildly sweet flavor, making them excellent for fresh snacking, salads, roasting, sauces, and drying.
This cultivar grows best in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil with regular watering. Its manageable plant size, uniform fruiting, and versatility make it a reliable choice for home gardens and container cultivation.
Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant outdoors once all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures remain consistently above 16°C to 18°C. In regions with mild winters or frost-free climates, seeds can be started from late winter to early spring for best performance.
Germination Guide
🌍 Suspected wild or antique variety of unknown origin, introduced to Seed Savers Exchange in 1999
Easy
Cherry Roma (Solanum lycopersicum) is an indeterminate, open-pollinated tomato variety that produces abundant small, plum-shaped fruits approximately 1 inch long with a distinctive sweet and spicy flavor. Introduced to the Seed Savers Exchange in 1999, this variety displays resistance to fusarium and verticillium wilts, making it reliable for home gardeners. Seeds germinate rapidly within 5-10 days when maintained at optimal warm soil temperatures (75-85°F / 24-29°C) with consistent moisture.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
5 – 10 days
Temperature
Min 15°C
Ideal 24°C
Max 30°C
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Seed-starting mix or soilless potting soil rich in organic matter, well-draining
Recommended container
Seed trays, propagator cells, small pots (2 inches or less), or soil blocks with drainage holes
Growing Tips
Use a seed-starting heat mat to maintain soil temperatures of 75-85°F for optimal germination speed and uniformity. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use a propagator dome or clear plastic cover to maintain humidity during germination. Once seedlings emerge, immediately remove the cover and provide bright, direct light (14-16 hours daily) to prevent weak, leggy growth. Water from below rather than overhead to reduce fungal disease risk. Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. When seedlings develop their first true leaves, transplant into larger containers (3-4 inches), burying stems deep to promote stronger root systems. Harden off seedlings for 1-2 weeks in full sun before final transplanting outdoors after all frost danger passes.
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