the staff of the Ridgewood blog
PITTSTOWN, NJ – After nearly a decade of research, Rutgers University has officially introduced a new tomato variety that could change the game for local growers and food lovers alike. The “Scarlet Sunrise” bicolor grape tomato is sweet, crack-resistant, and visually stunning with its golden skin kissed by a reddish blush – a nod to New Jersey’s morning skies that inspired its name.
Years of Research Pay Off
The tomato is the result of a long collaboration between Rutgers researchers Peter Nitzsche and Tom Orton, who began experimenting with crossbreeding in 2012. Their goal was to combine the firmness and durability of a red grape tomato with the sweetness and color of a delicate bicolor cherry variety prone to cracking.
“It took years of backcrossing, field trials, and lab work before we finally got it right,” said Nitzsche, who also directs the university’s Snyder Research Farm. “There were moments we thought it wouldn’t work – but the flavor made it worth it.”
Official Debut at Rutgers Tomato Tasting
The new variety was showcased on August 27 at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm Open House & Tomato Tasting in Pittstown, NJ. Visitors sampled Scarlet Sunrise alongside dozens of heirlooms, hybrids, and experimental breeds while touring the research fields.
Protected and Ready for Market
To secure its place in the industry, Scarlet Sunrise has been granted plant-variety protection by the USDA. Rutgers is now seeking partnerships with commercial seed distributors so that farmers and home gardeners can soon grow the tomato themselves.
Flavor First for New Jersey Growers
In a market dominated by large-scale growers in California and Mexico, New Jersey’s edge has always been flavor. According to Nitzsche, Scarlet Sunrise embodies that philosophy:
“It doesn’t have to be perfect-looking – it just has to taste great,” he said.
The tomato’s balanced sugar and acid profile makes it perfect for snacking, while its distinctive sunrise-like appearance ensures it stands out at farmers’ markets.
What’s Next for Scarlet Sunrise
The current plants grow 6–8 feet tall, which can be challenging for farmers. Rutgers scientists are already working on developing more compact versions of Scarlet Sunrise that retain the same flavor and beauty but are easier to grow.
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