Cherokee Purple Tomato Seed

Sowing: Start tomatoes indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost of spring, sowing the Cherokee purple heirloom tomato seeds in a flat approximately 1 cm deep and 2.5 cm apart. Keep the temperature at approximately 21-24 degrees Celsius until germination, as well as providing adequate light in a sunny window or under a grow light; keep the soil moist, but ensure adequate drainage. When the second set of leaves emerges, transplant the seedlings into individual pots; bury the stems up to the lowest set of leaves to grow strongly rooted plants. A week before planting the seedlings outside, begin exposing them to the weather during the day to harden them; tomatoes cannot endure cold weather, and should not be transplanted outside until all threat of frost has passed. When the soil temperature reaches at least 21 degrees Celsius, plant the seedlings in full sun and very rich soil; once more, bury the entire stem up to the lowest set of leaves. If providing a trellis, space the plants approximately 61 cm apart, but if allowing the vines to spread, space the plants 91-122 cm apart. For companion planting benefits, plant tomatoes with carrots or onions, but avoid planting them with cabbage or potatoes.

Growing: Indeterminate tomato varieties often perform best when provided with a trellis or support, since this protects them from various pests and diseases in connection with too much soil contact. Put the supports in place before the seedlings develop vines. As the vines begin to grow, tying them to the support helps their development. Since temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius can damage production, protect the plants if temperatures drop. A thick layer of mulch helps conserve moisture and control weeds; water the plants once a week, but avoid getting the leaves wet. Pruning the "suckers," or shoots that grow between the main stem and the branches, will greatly improve the production and strength of the plant.

To assess tomato ripeness, gently press them to check for slight yielding of the flesh. Additionally, observe the mature color, with Cherokee Purple tomatoes developing green shoulders when ripe. If the stem resists detachment from the vine, use scissors to cut it. While vine-ripened tomatoes offer superior flavor, it's essential to harvest all tomatoes at the onset of frost, including green ones. Unripe tomatoes will ripen over time if stored in a warm place away from direct sunlight. Despite not being optimal for sauce or canning, Cherokee Purple tomatoes are prized for their delightful sweetness and unmatched flavor when enjoyed fresh in slices.

Given the low likelihood of cross-pollination among most tomato varieties, there's no need for isolation concerns. Begin by harvesting fully ripe tomatoes and halving them horizontally across the middle, then extract the pulp into a container. For smaller tomatoes, consider blending them to pulp, as the hard and slippery seeds remain unharmed. Allow the mixture to ferment for several days or until a thick layer of mold develops; this step facilitates the removal of the gelatinous layer surrounding the Cherokee Purple heirloom tomato seeds. Afterward, discard the mold and debris, retaining the viable seeds settled at the bottom. Rinse the seeds in a strainer under running water until they are thoroughly cleaned, then spread them out to dry in a sheltered location away from direct sunlight. Stir the seeds twice daily and utilize a fan if humidity impedes the drying process. Once the Cherokee Purple 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: Mid to Late Summer
Planting Season: Spring
Latin Name/ USDA Zones: Solanum lycopersicum/ 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 150-200 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Cherokee Purple Tomato seeds can vary depending on storage conditions, but they typically remain viable for 3-5 years when stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight. It's best to use seeds within a few years for the highest germination rates.
Seed Type: Heirloom, Non-GMO
Soil Type: Loam Soil