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Growing Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

Start your Chadwick Cherry Tomato seeds indoors 7-9 weeks before your last spring frost date. Sow the seeds about a quarter inch deep in a well-draining, slightly acidic (pH 6.2 to 6.8) seed starting mix. Ensure the soil temperature remains between 65-85°F for successful germination. Once germinated, provide your seedlings with plenty of light, ideally with grow lights like the Boost MaxPro Grow Lights to ensure healthy growth. When the risk of frost has passed, you can transplant your seedlings into your garden plot, raised bed, or greenhouse. Space the plants 24-36 inches apart, ensuring they receive full sun exposure. Remember to provide a well-draining, sandy loam soil with good moisture retention.

As Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes are indeterminate and can grow quite tall, provide sturdy support such as trellises or stakes to prevent the vines from sprawling. Regularly prune and remove any suckers to improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease. Companion planting with basil, marigolds, or nasturtiums can help deter pests and improve overall garden health. Ensure consistent moisture in the soil, as fluctuations in watering can lead to issues like blossom end rot. When the fruit sets, consider mulching around the base of the plants to conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weeds. Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases, and address any issues promptly to maintain a healthy crop of full-flavored cherry tomatoes.

Harvesting Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes

Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes are classified as indeterminate, which means they continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season. This characteristic allows for an extended harvesting period, typically starting around 70 to 79 days after transplanting. To determine the ideal time for harvest, look for bright-red, uniformly colored fruit that is firm to the touch and has reached its full size, typically about 1-2 ounces. Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes offer a full-flavored balance between sweetness and tanginess when fully ripe. To harvest, simply grasp the ripe tomato gently and twist it from the vine. Alternatively, you can use a pair of clean garden shears or scissors to snip the stem just above the fruit. Be careful not to damage the plant while harvesting, and try to avoid pulling on the vines excessively. Since this variety is indeterminate, you can expect a continuous supply of ripe tomatoes over several weeks or even months, as long as the growing conditions remain favorable. Regularly check your Chadwick Cherry Tomato plants for ripe fruit, and harvest as they become ready.

About Chadwick Cherry Tomato Garden Seeds

The Chadwick Cherry Tomato is an heirloom variety that holds a special place in the history of tomato breeding. It was developed by Alan Chadwick, a British horticulturist and founder of the UC Santa Cruz Garden Project in California during the 1960s. Chadwick was known for his innovative organic gardening methods and his dedication to preserving heirloom plant varieties. The Chadwick Cherry Tomato, with its exceptional flavor and versatility, became one of his contributions to the world of gardening and agriculture.

While it may not have been bred for a specific trait or growing climate, its outstanding taste and adaptability to various conditions have made it a favorite among home gardeners. Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes are known for their robust flavor, described as a perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess, making them ideal for salads and fresh eating.

As for container gardens and hanging baskets, Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes can indeed thrive in both settings. Their indeterminate growth habit, with long, sturdy vines, makes them suitable for container gardening, provided you provide adequate support and room for growth. Hanging baskets can also be a creative way to cultivate these tomatoes, as long as they are well-supported, receive sufficient sunlight, and are kept adequately watered. This adaptability allows gardeners with limited space to enjoy homegrown, flavorful tomatoes.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Alan Chadwick, the horticulturist behind these tomatoes, was a prominent figure in the organic gardening and sustainable agriculture movement during the 1960s and 1970s. He was known for his dedication to biodynamic and organic farming practices and his innovative approach to gardening education. The Chadwick Cherry Tomato, as one of his creations, embodies the principles of organic and sustainable agriculture. It's not only renowned for its exceptional flavor but also for its ability to thrive without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. These tomatoes have become a symbol of the broader movement towards healthier, more environmentally friendly, and sustainable food production practices. So, when you grow Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes, you're not just cultivating delicious fruits; you're also participating in a small piece of agricultural history that emphasizes the importance of organic and sustainable gardening methods."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Chadwick Cherry Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 250 mg - Wholesale - Approximately 88 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 2,500 Seeds
• 1 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 10,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 40,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 160,000 Seeds

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