Heirloom Tomato Plants
Heirloom tomatoes are a type of tomato that are grown from seeds that have been passed down through generations. These tomatoes are known for their unique characteristics, diverse colors, shapes, and flavors that differ from standard hybrid tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated, meaning they are pollinated naturally by insects, birds, wind, or other natural processes.
Heirloom tomatoes come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, orange, green, purple, and even striped varieties. They can have irregular shapes, sizes, and textures, adding to their visual appeal. In terms of flavor, heirloom tomatoes are prized for their rich, complex, and often sweet taste that varies depending on the variety.
While heirloom tomatoes may not have the uniform appearance or shelf life of commercial hybrid tomatoes, they are valued for their unique flavors and traits. They are often used in salads, sandwiches, salsas, sauces, and other dishes where their taste and visual appeal can shine. Heirloom tomatoes are popular among gardeners and food enthusiasts for their heritage, diversity, and delicious qualities.
Tips for growing Tomatoes:
1-Provide ample sunlight: Tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Choose a sunny spot in your garden or use containers that can be moved to follow the sun. Transplant your seedlings outdoors once they have developed a few sets of true leaves. Wait to plant until we are receiving 10 degree nights, Tomatoes do not react well to cold weather and cold winds, especially as young plants.
2-Prepare the soil: Tomatoes prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve its fertility and drainage.
3-Plant properly: Dig a hole deep enough to bury the tomato seedling up to its first set of leaves. This encourages the plant to develop a strong root system. Space the plants about 2-3 feet apart to allow for air circulation.
4-Water consistently: Tomatoes need regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
5- Support the plants: Most tomato varieties benefit from some form of support, such as stakes, cages, or trellises. This helps keep the plants upright and prevents the fruit from touching the ground, reducing the risk of rot and disease.
6-Mulch the soil: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants. This helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
7-Fertilize appropriately: Tomatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer or incorporate slow-release organic fertilizers into the soil before planting. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can promote leafy growth at the expense of fruit production.
8-Prune and pinch: Depending on the variety, you may need to prune or pinch off suckers (side shoots) that develop in the leaf axils. This helps redirect energy to fruit production and improves air circulation.
9-Harvest at the right time: Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they have reached their full color and are firm but slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist or cut the fruit from the vine to avoid damaging the plant.
Our Varieties:
Old German
Old German tomatoes are a variety of heirloom tomatoes that are known for their large size, unique appearance, and excellent flavor. These tomatoes typically have a golden-yellow to orange color with red and pink streaks or marbling throughout the flesh. They can grow to be quite large, often weighing up to 1-2 pounds each.
Old German tomatoes have a sweet and rich flavor with a good balance of acidity, making them a popular choice for fresh eating, slicing, and adding to salads. The flesh of Old German tomatoes is juicy and meaty, with a smooth texture that is perfect for enjoying raw or in cooked dishes.
These tomatoes are considered heirloom varieties because they have been passed down through generations and are open-pollinated, meaning they are pollinated naturally. Old German tomatoes are prized for their unique coloration, taste, and history, making them a favorite among gardeners and tomato enthusiasts.
Black Krim
Black Krim tomatoes are a unique variety of heirloom tomatoes that are known for their dark, dusky purple to black coloration. These tomatoes originated from the Isle of Krim in the Black Sea region of Russia, hence the name "Black Krim." The color of Black Krim tomatoes can vary from deep purple to brownish-black, with green shoulders.
Black Krim tomatoes have a rich, complex flavor that is often described as smoky, sweet, and slightly salty. The flesh of these tomatoes is juicy and meaty, with a soft and creamy texture. They are popular for their bold and distinctive taste, making them a favorite among tomato enthusiasts and chefs.
In terms of appearance, Black Krim tomatoes have a slightly flattened shape and may exhibit cracking or irregularities on the skin. These imperfections are characteristic of heirloom varieties and do not affect the flavor or quality of the tomato. Black Krim tomatoes are versatile and can be used in salads, sandwiches, salsas, sauces, and other dishes where their unique color and flavor can stand out.
Brandywine
Brandywine tomatoes are a popular and highly regarded heirloom tomato variety known for their large size, rich flavor, and pinkish-red color. These tomatoes are considered one of the best-tasting heirloom tomatoes available. Brandywine tomatoes have a beefsteak shape with a slightly ribbed texture and can weigh up to 1-2 pounds each.
Brandywine tomatoes are prized for their exceptional flavor, which is often described as sweet, rich, and tangy. The flesh of Brandywine tomatoes is juicy, meaty, and has a smooth texture that melts in your mouth. They are popular for fresh eating, slicing, salads, and sandwiches due to their delicious taste and texture.
These tomatoes are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations, contributing to their heritage and popularity among gardeners and tomato enthusiasts. Brandywine tomatoes may have a slightly longer growing season compared to other tomato varieties, but the wait is well worth it for the exceptional flavor and quality they offer.
