Early Ruby

chancethegardener · June 1, 2016

This variety got my attention when I was browsing Peter Henderson's 1891 seed catalog (I have the original catalog as part of our seed company's heritage library). I found the seeds for the variety among USDA's accessions (PI 644906), requested and grew them this season in ground as well as in our greenhouse in pots.

EarlyRuby.jpg

Fruit size is said to be large in the catalog and this is the only thing that I would say is not consistent between my results and the variety description, as far as today's concept of a large fruit goes. Fruits that I have harvested so far are generally in the range of 2.5-4 oz.

Plants have regular foliage, are determinate, need around 55-60 days to maturity, and are prolific. Fruit color is red-deep red.

Plants have open-habit as indicated in the description, foliage is sparse.

I think that the flavor is exceptional for such an early variety. I usually don't detect that praised smokiness/saltiness of fruits of black varieties. Certain fruits of Early Ruby though, tasted as if I sprinkled salt on them. Overall, very good balance of sweetness and acidity.

EarlyRuby2.JPG

Mehmet

June 1, 2016	#1
chancethegardener Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: WV Posts: 604	Early Ruby This variety got my attention when I was browsing Peter Henderson's 1891 seed catalog (I have the original catalog as part of our seed company's heritage library). I found the seeds for the variety among USDA's accessions (PI 644906), requested and grew them this season in ground as well as in our greenhouse in pots. EarlyRuby.jpg Fruit size is said to be large in the catalog and this is the only thing that I would say is not consistent between my results and the variety description, as far as today's concept of a large fruit goes. Fruits that I have harvested so far are generally in the range of 2.5-4 oz. Plants have regular foliage, are determinate, need around 55-60 days to maturity, and are prolific. Fruit color is red-deep red. Plants have open-habit as indicated in the description, foliage is sparse. I think that the flavor is exceptional for such an early variety. I usually don't detect that praised smokiness/saltiness of fruits of black varieties. Certain fruits of Early Ruby though, tasted as if I sprinkled salt on them. Overall, very good balance of sweetness and acidity. EarlyRuby2.JPG Mehmet