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Growing Glacier Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Glacier tomatoes, begin by starting the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches in seed-starting trays or containers filled with well-draining, sterile seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide warmth, as Glacier tomatoes germinate best at temperatures between 65-85 F. Once the seedlings have emerged and developed their first set of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or cell trays to encourage root growth. When the threat of frost has passed and the seedlings have grown to about 6-8 inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted into the garden. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and space the plants 24-36 inches apart, with rows spaced 36 inches apart. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic (6.2 to 6.8) and provide adequate support for the determinate plants, as they grow to a height of 36-48 inches. With proper care and maintenance, Glacier tomatoes will reward growers with an early harvest of sweet, tangy fruits in just 56 days from transplanting.

Throughout the growing process of Glacier tomatoes, it's essential to maintain consistent care to ensure healthy plant development and abundant fruit production. Regular watering is crucial, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent issues like blossom end rot. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Additionally, providing support for the determinate plants, such as cages or stakes, will help keep the fruit off the ground and prevent disease. Pruning the lower leaves of the plant can also improve airflow and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Companion planting with herbs like basil and marigolds can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects to the garden. Lastly, applying organic fertilizers high in phosphorus and potassium will support healthy root and fruit development. Regular monitoring for pests and diseases and prompt action if detected will help maintain the health and vigor of the Glacier tomato plants throughout the growing season.

Harvesting Glacier Tomatoes

As a determinate variety, Glacier tomatoes typically produce fruit that ripens over a relatively short period, making harvesting more concentrated compared to indeterminate varieties. Determining the optimal time for harvesting Glacier tomatoes involves observing their color and firmness. When the tomatoes reach a vibrant red hue and feel firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure, they are likely ripe and ready for harvesting. At this stage, the fruits should easily detach from the vine with a gentle twist or tug. It's important to harvest regularly once the fruits reach maturity to encourage continuous production. Using sharp garden shears or scissors to cut the stems can help prevent damage to the plant. Additionally, harvesting in the morning when temperatures are cooler can help preserve the tomatoes' flavor and texture. Regularly checking for ripe fruit and harvesting promptly ensures a steady supply of fresh and flavorful Glacier tomatoes throughout the growing season.

About Glacier Tomato Garden Seeds

The Glacier tomato variety has a fascinating history dating back to its development as an open-pollinated heirloom cultivar. Originating from the northern regions, particularly well-suited for cooler climates, Glacier tomatoes were meticulously bred for their adaptability to short growing seasons. This tomato's lineage can be traced to breeders who sought to create a tomato variety capable of thriving in regions with limited sunlight and lower temperatures, allowing gardeners in these areas to enjoy homegrown tomatoes despite challenging environmental conditions.

This variety of tomato was specifically bred to excel in cooler climates and shorter growing seasons, making it ideal for gardeners in northern regions or those facing challenges with unpredictable weather patterns. Its determinate growth habit ensures that the fruit matures relatively quickly, allowing for a more concentrated harvest window, which can be advantageous in areas with shorter summers. Additionally, Glacier tomatoes exhibit excellent disease resistance, providing further reliability for growers facing adverse growing conditions.

Despite its compact size and early maturity, Glacier tomatoes are well-suited for container gardening due to their determinate growth habit and manageable size. Growing them in containers allows for greater flexibility in placement, making it easier to optimize sunlight exposure and protect the plants from adverse weather conditions. While they may not be as commonly grown in hanging baskets due to their determinate nature, creative gardeners may experiment with suspending small containers of Glacier tomatoes to maximize space in limited garden areas.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Provide consistent moisture throughout the growing season, especially during periods of fruit development. Even though they are bred for cooler climates, maintaining adequate water levels is crucial for promoting healthy fruit production and preventing issues like blossom end rot. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature fluctuations, further supporting the plant's overall health and productivity."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Glacier Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 125 mg Packet - Approximately 53 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Approximately 3,000 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 12,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 48,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 192,000 Seeds

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