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Growing Cherokee Purple Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Cherokee Purple tomatoes, initiate the process indoors 7-9 weeks before the last spring frost date. Sow the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches in a well-draining, loose, and slightly acidic soil mix. Provide consistent moisture and maintain a germination temperature between 65-85 F. As the seedlings grow, ensure they receive ample light, preferably in a sunny location or under grow lights. Once the threat of frost has passed and the seedlings have developed sturdy roots, typically after 7-10 days of germination, it's time to transplant them outdoors. Indeterminate in growth, these tomatoes benefit from the support of a cage or trellis. Ensure proper spacing of 18-36 inches between plants, allowing them room to sprawl and continue growing throughout the season. This method ensures a successful start for Cherokee Purple tomatoes, promoting healthy development and robust fruit production.

To maintain healthy Cherokee Purple tomato plants, consider the following tips and practices. Regularly check for pests like tomato hornworms, aphids, and whiteflies, as well as common diseases such as blossom end rot, fusarium wilt, and powdery mildew. Implementing a consistent watering schedule, avoiding overwatering, and ensuring proper drainage contribute to disease prevention. Cherokee Purple tomatoes thrive in slightly acidic, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.2 to 6.8. Companion planting with basil, marigolds, or nasturtiums can help deter pests and enhance the overall health of the garden. Applying organic mulch around the plants helps maintain soil moisture and suppresses weed growth. Pruning and staking may be beneficial to manage the sprawling indeterminate growth habit and improve air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases. Regularly inspecting the plants and providing proper support contribute to a successful growing season for Cherokee Purple tomatoes.

Harvesting Cherokee Purple Tomatoes

Harvesting Cherokee Purple tomatoes involves identifying key ripeness indicators and employing proper techniques. As an indeterminate variety, Cherokee Purple tomatoes continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season. Knowing when to harvest involves observing the fruits for a rich, dark pink to purple color with slightly softer shoulders. Ripe tomatoes should yield slightly to gentle pressure, and they often develop a characteristic deep, savory aroma. To harvest, use sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors to cut the stem, leaving a small portion attached to the fruit. This helps prevent damage to the plant and the remaining fruit. Harvesting selectively as tomatoes ripen promotes continuous production. Cherokee Purple tomatoes are renowned for their complex flavor, making them a delightful addition to salads, fresh eating, and slicing for culinary creations. Regular and careful harvesting ensures a steady supply of these unique and flavorful tomatoes throughout the growing season.

About Cherokee Purple Tomato Garden Seeds

The history of the Cherokee Purple tomato is deeply rooted in heirloom traditions and the rich agricultural heritage of the Cherokee people. This unique variety has a captivating story, as it was reportedly passed down through generations in the Cherokee tribe, originating from seeds shared by a Native American woman. The tomato gained popularity when seeds were shared with tomato enthusiasts and growers, leading to its resurgence in the 1990s after nearly a century of obscurity. The Cherokee Purple tomato is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its exceptional flavor and distinctive dark currant flesh.

Bred in times when heirlooms were valued for their taste and adaptability, the Cherokee Purple was not specifically bred for commercial traits or to cater to particular growing climates. Its development was a natural outcome of selective saving and sharing of seeds within a community that prioritized flavor and resilience.

Other interesting facts about this tomato include its large, beefsteak-like fruits weighing 12 to 16 ounces, making it a substantial and flavorful addition to various culinary applications. The tomato's resistance to several common tomato diseases, including Bacterial Speck, Fusarium Wilt, and Verticillium Wilt, adds to its appeal for home gardeners.

While Cherokee Purple tomatoes are typically grown in garden plots and raised beds, they can also be cultivated in larger containers, making them suitable for container gardens. However, hanging baskets may not be the most practical option for this indeterminate variety, as they require staking or caging due to their sprawling growth habit.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"To enhance the flavor and texture of Cherokee Purple tomatoes, consider providing consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Irregular watering can lead to issues such as cracking or blossom end rot. Mulching around the plants helps maintain soil moisture and regulates temperature, contributing to healthier and more robust fruits."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 250 mg packet - Approximately 98 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Approximately 2,775 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 11,100 Seeds
• 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 44,400 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 187,600 Seeds
• 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 888,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Cherokee Purple Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.