Old German Tomato Seeds

Sowing: In cooler climates, start Jubilee watermelon seeds indoors about a month before transplanting, planting three seeds per peat pot at a depth of approximately 1 centimeter. Maintain a soil temperature of at least 26-29 degrees Celsius to ensure optimal germination. Once true leaves appear, thin to the strongest seedling and transplant about a week after the last frost. Space two or three plants in each hill with a distance of 183-244 centimeters in all directions. For gardeners in warmer climates, direct sow watermelon seeds when the soil temperature reaches at least 24 degrees Celsius, planting six seeds per hill with the same spacing. Thin to the strongest two or three plants upon seedling emergence. Watermelons thrive in full sun and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Consider using black plastic to warm the soil for young seedlings.

Growing: Once vines begin to develop, apply a thick layer of mulch to suppress weeds and prevent direct contact between the melons and soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until fruit begins to grow, thereafter watering only when the soil becomes completely dry. Monitor for insect pests, which may pose a threat. Jubilee melons boast good disease resistance against anthracnose and fusarium wilt.

To harvest, check tomatoes for a slight give upon gentle pressure and for mature coloration as ripeness indicators. Use scissors if the stem does not detach easily. While vine-ripened tomatoes offer superior flavor, harvest all tomatoes at the first sign of frost, including green ones, which will ripen if stored in a warm place away from direct sunlight. Old German tomatoes are notably low in acid, making them ideal for fresh consumption or preservation.

For seed saving, select fully ripe tomatoes and cut them across the middle to squeeze the pulp into a container. For smaller tomatoes, a brief pulse in a blender can assist in extracting the seeds without damage. Allow the mixture to ferment for a few days until a mold layer forms, facilitating the removal of the gelatinous seed coating. Skim off the mold and debris, then rinse the seeds clean. Spread them out to dry, stirring twice daily and possibly using a fan to expedite the process in humid conditions. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to four years, ensuring they're ready for future planting seasons.

Planting Methods: Start Old German tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, planting them 6mm deep and 2.5cm apart in fertile soil.

Blooming Season: Old German tomatoes typically bloom during the summer months, from late spring to early autumn.

Planting Season: Plant Old German tomato seeds indoors in late winter or early spring, or transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date has passed.

Latin Name/USDA Zones: The Latin name for Old German tomato is Solanum lycopersicum, and it grows well in USDA Zones 3-11.

Sunlight Required/ Height: Old German tomato plants require full sunlight and can grow to heights ranging from 90 to 180 centimeters.

Shelf Life After Test Date: Old German tomato seeds have a shelf life of approximately 3-5 years after the test date when stored properly in a cool, dry place.

Seed Type: Old German tomato seeds are open-pollinated, non-hybrid seeds.

Soil Type: Old German tomato plants thrive in well-draining loam soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7, but they can tolerate clay or sandy soil types as well.