Ace 55 Tomato Seed

Sowing: Begin by planting Ace 55 heirloom tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the final spring frost. Place the seeds in a flat, sowing them 1 centimeter deep and 2.5 centimeters apart. Maintain a temperature of 21-24 degrees Celsius until germination, ensuring sufficient light exposure either through a sunny window or under a grow light. Keep the soil consistently moist while ensuring proper drainage. When the second set of leaves appears, transfer the seedlings to individual pots, burying the stems up to the lowest set of leaves to encourage strong root development. One week before transplanting the seedlings outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions during the day to acclimate them. Remember, tomatoes are sensitive to cold temperatures and should only be transplanted after the risk of frost has passed. Once the soil temperature reaches at least 21 degrees Celsius, plant the seedlings in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil under full sun, burying the entire stem up to the lowest leaves once more. Space the plants 60 centimeters apart. For companion planting benefits, consider planting Ace 55 heirloom tomato seeds alongside carrots or onions, but avoid planting them near cabbage or potatoes.

Growing: Protect the plants from temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius as they can harm production. Apply a thick layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water the plants once a week, ensuring to avoid wetting the leaves. Since Ace 55 heirloom tomatoes are determinate or bush-type varieties, they do not require staking.

Testing the ripeness of tomatoes involves gently pressing them; the flesh should yield slightly. Additionally, their mature color serves as an indicator of ripeness. If the stem does not detach easily from the vine, it can be cut with scissors. For optimal flavor, tomatoes ripened on the vine are preferred, but once frost arrives, all tomatoes, including green ones, should be harvested. Unripe tomatoes will eventually ripen if placed in a warm location away from direct sunlight.

For collecting Ace 55 heirloom tomato seeds, start by picking fully ripe tomatoes and cutting them in half horizontally. Squeeze out the pulp into a container. Alternatively, for smaller tomatoes, place them in a blender and pulse the mixture, as Ace 55 heirloom tomato seeds are tough and slick and won't be damaged. Allow the mixture to ferment for several days or until a thick layer of mold forms; this process removes the gel-like layer on the seeds. Pour off the mold and debris, saving the viable seeds settled at the bottom. Rinse the seeds in a strainer under running water until they are clean, then spread them out to dry in a protected area away from direct sunlight. Stir them twice a day and use a fan to accelerate drying if the air is humid. Once the Ace 55 heirloom tomato seeds are completely dry, store them in a cool, dry place for up to four years.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor, Hydroponic
Blooming Season: Summer
Planting Season: Spring
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Solanum lycopersicum/ 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 90-120 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Ace 55 Tomato Seeds after the test date is typically around 1-2 years when stored in cool, dry conditions. It's advisable to use seeds within this timeframe to maximize their viability and germination rate. Proper storage, away from moisture and extreme temperatures, helps maintain the integrity of the seeds for successful planting.
Seed Type: Heirloom, Non-GMO
Soil Type: Loam Soil