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Growing Baxter’s Early Bush Cherry Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

Start indoors approximately 7-9 weeks before your region's last spring frost date. Begin by sowing the seeds at a depth of about 0.25 inches in a sterile seed starting mix, ensuring good seed-to-mix contact. Germination usually takes between 7-10 days at a temperature range of 65-85°F (18-29°C). Once the seedlings have two sets of leaves and the risk of frost has passed, typically 72 days from transplant, they are ready for the great outdoors. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining, slightly acidic soil (pH 6.2 to 6.8) that retains moisture. Space the plants 24 to 36 inches apart with 36 inches between rows.

Regularly check for common tomato pests like tomato hornworms, cutworms, aphids, and whiteflies, as well as diseases such as blossom end rot and powdery mildew. These issues can often be prevented by maintaining consistent moisture levels in the soil, avoiding overwatering, and ensuring good air circulation. Additionally, consider companion planting with basil, marigolds, or nasturtiums to help deter pests and promote healthier growth. Baxter's Early Bush Cherry tomatoes are suitable for container gardening, making them a great choice for small spaces and patios. Regular pruning of lower branches and suckers, typical for determinate tomatoes, can improve airflow and reduce disease risk. Remember to provide adequate support, like stakes or tomato cages, as the plants start to bear fruit to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of the cherry tomatoes. Finally, maintain a steady watering routine to keep the soil consistently moist, and feed the plants with a balanced tomato fertilizer to support their growth and fruit production.

Harvesting Baxter’s Early Bush Cherry Tomatoes

Baxter's Early Bush Cherry tomatoes are a determinate variety, which means they produce their fruit all at once and don't continue fruiting after that. To determine when to harvest these delicious cherry tomatoes, keep a close eye on their appearance. They should have a vibrant red color and feel firm but not overly hard when gently squeezed. The sweet-tart flavor is best when they are fully ripe. When you notice the majority of the cherry tomatoes on the plant have reached this stage, it's time to start harvesting. To harvest, simply grasp the ripe cherry tomatoes and gently twist or cut them from the vine using scissors or pruning shears. Be careful not to damage the plant while harvesting. Since Baxter's Early Bush Cherry tomatoes are determinate, the harvest will typically occur within a relatively short window, making it essential to pick the fruits promptly as they ripen to enjoy their peak flavor and texture.

About Baxter’s Early Bush Cherry Tomato Garden Seeds

Little is known about the history of this variety, but it is an heirloom variety and has been passed down to preserve its special attributes.

It grows well in tougher climates and produces tomatoes that store well and are resistant to cracking.

Baxter's Early Bush Cherry tomatoes are well-suited for container gardening. Their determinate growth habit, compact size, and relatively short stature make them an excellent choice for growing in containers, pots, or even large hanging baskets. These tomatoes thrive in well-draining, loose, and slightly acidic soil. When grown in containers, ensure that the containers are at least 5 gallons in size and have good drainage. This variety's manageable size allows you to place the containers in sunny spots on patios, balconies, or even smaller garden spaces, making it convenient for gardeners with limited outdoor areas.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Provide proper support for your plants, especially when grown in containers or hanging baskets. Despite their compact and bushy growth habit, these determinate tomatoes can still benefit from some form of support. You can use small tomato cages, stakes, or even trellises to help keep the plants upright and ensure that the fruit-laden branches don't droop or break. Proper support not only helps with plant stability but also keeps the tomatoes off the ground, reducing the risk of pests, diseases, and fruit rot. "

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Baxter’s Early Bush Cherry Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 250 mg - Wholesale - Approximately 90 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 Baxter’s Early Bush Cherry Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.