Great White Tomato Seed

Sowing: Begin sowing Great White heirloom tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost of spring. Plant the seeds in a flat approximately 1 centimeter deep and 2.54 centimeters apart. Maintain a temperature of 21-24 degrees Celsius until germination, and ensure adequate light exposure either in a sunny window or under a grow light. Keep the soil consistently moist while ensuring proper drainage. Once the second set of leaves appears, transplant the seedlings into individual pots, burying the stems up to the lowest set of leaves to promote strong root growth. About a week before transplanting seedlings outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor weather conditions during the day to harden them off. Tomatoes are sensitive to cold temperatures and should not be transplanted outside until all risk of frost has passed. When the soil temperature reaches at least 21 degrees Celsius, plant the seedlings in full sun and nutrient-rich soil, burying the entire stem up to the lowest set of leaves. If using a trellis, space the plants approximately 61 centimeters apart; if allowing the vines to sprawl, space them 91-122 centimeters apart. For companion planting benefits, consider planting tomatoes with carrots or onions, but avoid planting them with cabbage or potatoes.

Growing: Indeterminate tomato varieties typically benefit from trellising or support to protect them from pests and diseases associated with excessive soil contact. Install supports before the seedlings develop vines, and as the vines grow, tie them to the support structure to aid their development. Protect plants from temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius as they can damage production. Apply a thick layer of mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds. Water the plants once a week, avoiding wetting the leaves. Pruning the "suckers," or shoots that grow between the main stem and branches, will enhance plant production and strength. Great White tomatoes are resistant to cracking and can withstand drought conditions.

To assess the ripeness of tomatoes, apply gentle pressure to them; the flesh should yield slightly. Additionally, their mature color serves as an indicator of ripeness. If the stem doesn't detach easily from the vine, use scissors to cut it. Tomatoes ripened on the vine typically boast the most exquisite flavor, yet when frost threatens, it's crucial to harvest all tomatoes, including the green ones. Unripe tomatoes can ripen over time when placed in a warm area away from direct sunlight. Notably, Great White tomatoes are characterized by their scarcity of seeds and low acidity.

To save Great White heirloom tomato seeds, begin by ensuring isolation isn't necessary due to minimal risk of cross-pollination among most tomato varieties. Harvest fully ripe tomatoes and halve them horizontally, squeezing the pulp into a container. Alternatively, for smaller tomatoes, utilize a blender to pulse the mixture, as their hard and slippery seeds won't be harmed. Allow the mixture to ferment for several days or until a thick layer of mold develops, effectively removing the gelatinous seed coating. Discard the mold and debris, retaining the viable seeds settled at the bottom. Rinse the Great White heirloom tomato seeds in a strainer under running water until they are clean, then spread them out in a sheltered area away from direct sunlight to dry. Stir them twice daily, and if the air is humid, use a fan to expedite drying. Once fully dry, store the Great White heirloom tomato seeds in a cool, dry location for preservation, with a lifespan of up to four years.

Latin Name: Lycopersicon esculentum

Type: Open Pollinated, Indeterminate, Warm Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 244 centimeters

Color: White, Cream, Yellow