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Growing Stuffer Striped Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Stuffer Striped tomatoes, start the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date of spring. Sow the seeds about 0.25 inches deep in well-draining, loose soil in containers or in seed trays. Keep the soil moist and make sure it stays at a temperature of 65-85 F for germination, which typically happens within 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and there is no more danger of frost, transplant them outdoors into garden plots, raised beds, or containers with about 24-36 inches between the plants and 36 inches between rows. As indeterminate tomatoes, Stuffer Striped plants will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season, so make sure to provide support for them, like a cage or trellis, to keep the vines upright. Add organic matter like compost to the soil to improve soil fertility and moisture retention. Regularly water the plants, especially during hot and dry periods, and monitor the plants for pests and diseases. Stuffer Striped tomatoes are resistant to powdery mildew, which makes them a bit more resilient than other plants. With proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of tasty, uniquely shaped tomatoes perfect for stuffing or for eating fresh!

Throughout the growing process of Stuffer Striped tomatoes, regular maintenance can help to ensure healthy plants and a great harvest. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged - this will prevent issues like blossom end rot, especially during hot and dry periods. Mulching around the base of the plants can help hold in moisture and suppress weeds. Indeterminate tomato varieties like Stuffer Striped benefit from regular pruning to remove suckers and to have better airflow, which reduces the risk of diseases and encourages better fruit production. You can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects to the garden by companion planting with herbs like basil and marigolds. You should also consider providing support such as stakes, cages, or trellises to keep the vines upright as they grow and bear fruit, which will help to prevent sprawling and damage to the plants.

Harvesting Stuffer Striped Tomatoes

Knowing when to harvest Stuffer Striped tomatoes is really important to get the optimal flavor and texture out of your tomatoes. These tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season. Harvesting usually begins when the fruits reach full color and size, typically about 85 days after transplanting from trays. You can tell they're ready when the stripes are vibrant and the fruit feels firm but yields slightly to gentle pressure. To harvest, simply grasp the tomato firmly and twist it gently until it separates from the vine. Be careful not to damage nearby fruits or the plant itself. Regularly harvesting ripe tomatoes helps the plant to continue producing, ensuring a long harvest season.

About Stuffer Striped Tomato Garden Seeds

The Stuffer Striped tomato variety has an interesting history. Starting as an heirloom, its exact origins are somewhat mysterious, but it has become popular among gardeners for its distinctive ruffled bell pepper shape and bright red and orange striped coloring. Over time, it has become cherished for its rich flavor and adaptability in various dishes.

This variety of tomato was not specifically bred for a certain trait or growing climate but it evolved naturally, most likely through open pollination and selection by generations of gardeners. Its resilience to powdery mildew means it has a level of natural adaptation to environmental conditions, making it suitable for a range of climates and growing conditions.

In addition to its unique appearance and flavor, the Stuffer Striped tomato is also a practical choice for home gardeners. Its compact size and continuous fruiting make it a good fit for container gardens, which can allow urban and space-limited gardeners to enjoy homegrown tomatoes even in small spaces. While it may not be ideal for hanging baskets due to its sprawling growth habit, it can thrive in raised beds, garden plots, and even greenhouses.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Try experimenting with different stuffing recipes to fully appreciate the potential of these tomatoes. These tomatoes are perfect for filling with a variety of savory or sweet fillings, like creamy cheeses and grains and flavorful herbs and spices. Get creative in the kitchen and explore new ways to enjoy this versatile and unique tomato!"

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Stuffer Striped Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 65 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Approximately 1,700 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 6,800 Seeds
• 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 27,200 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 108,800 Seeds

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