F1 Crimson Crush

Crimson Crush Tomatoes

A standout variety for blight-prone gardens, Crimson Crush produces large, almost beefsteak-sized tomatoes weighing up to 200g. Packed with rich, full flavour, these vigorous plants carry on producing even if blight affects some leaves — making them a clever, resilient choice for home growers. Perfect for slicing, sandwiches, or roasting, they deliver a spectacular harvest of juicy, red fruits.

Best Time to Plant

In a greenhouse from April. In areas prone to frost, the plants may turn blue and lose some leaves, but they should recover as the weather warms. If planting outside, wait until the third week in May after all frosts have passed.

Harvest

Roughly 8–10 weeks after planting — pick when tomatoes are red, swollen, and glossy.

Growing Instructions

• Starting Off: Grow on in a conservatory or bright window until all frosts have passed. Gradually acclimatise outdoors over 4–6 days.

• Spacing: Plant 45cm apart in well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered spot.

• Watering: Keep young plants well watered until established, especially during dry spells, avoiding waterlogging.

• Support & Pruning: Pinch out side shoots as plants grow. Support each main stem with canes and soft garden twine.

• Feeding: Feed only once 3–4 tomatoes start to swell — not before. Overfeeding can cause splitting stems or curling leaves.

• Maintenance: Remove any dead or rotting leaves. In early August, pinch out the growing tip to encourage top fruits to increase in size before the season ends.

Top Tips

• Side Shoot Management: Pinch out side shoots to focus energy on fruit development.

• Water Evenly: Irregular watering can cause splitting or poor fruit set; keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.

• Feeding Balance: If tops are spindly, feed more; if leaves curl, reduce feeding.

• Avoid Farmyard Manure: Chemicals in straw bedding can harm tomatoes and cucumbers.

• Blight Resilience: Even if the leaves show early signs of blight, the plant will continue producing healthy fruits.