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Growing Brad's Atomic Grape Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

Start by sowing the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Use seed-starting trays or small pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Plant the seeds about 0.25 inches deep into the soil and lightly cover them. Keep the soil moist but not soaked, and place the trays in a warm location (70-80 F) to encourage germination. Germination should occur within 5 to 10 days. Once the seedlings emerge, place them in a sunny spot or under grow lights to keep them strong and healthy.

As the plants grow, thin the seedlings to avoid overcrowding, leaving the strongest ones. Maintain consistent moisture and ensure the seedlings receive at least 12-16 hours of light each day. After the seedlings have grown strong for 6 to 8 weeks and the danger of frost has passed, begin hardening them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a sheltered, shaded area for a few hours each day, slowly increasing their exposure to sunlight and outdoor temperatures over a 7-10 day period. When the outdoor temperatures are consistently above 50 F at night, transplant the seedlings into your garden or containers.

Provide support with stakes, cages, or trellises, as the plants can grow tall and need to be supported to prevent sprawling and encourage vertical growth. Water consistently, ensuring the soil is kept evenly moist but not soggy, as tomatoes prefer consistent moisture. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and prevent disease. Fertilize the plants every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, but avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of fruit production. Regularly prune any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage airflow and prevent disease.

Harvesting Brad's Atomic Grape Tomatoes

Brad's Atomic Grape tomatoes are typically ready to harvest when they have fully ripened on the vine, displaying their signature rainbow of colors: purple, red, and orange hues with a streaked pattern. The fruit will feel firm but slightly soft to the touch when ripe. To harvest, gently twist or cut the tomatoes from the vine to avoid damaging the plant. Since this variety is indeterminate, the plant will produce fruit throughout the season, so pick the ripe tomatoes regularly to encourage more fruiting. If frost threatens, you can harvest green tomatoes and allow them to ripen indoors.

About Brad's Atomic Grape Tomato Garden Seeds

Gardeners choose Brad's Atomic Grape tomatoes for their unique beauty, continuous production, and exceptional flavor. It’s a great option for those who love growing visually stunning varieties that make a statement in both the garden and on the plate.

This variety was bred by Brad Gates of Wild Boar Farms, a small, family-run farm in California specializing in unique and beautiful tomato varieties. Gates created the Brad's Atomic Grape tomato with the goal of producing a flavorful, visually stunning cherry tomato that would be a standout in any garden. It was introduced to the market in the early 2010s, and since then, it has become a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike for its beauty and delicious taste.

While not known for winning major awards, Brad's Atomic Grape has gained recognition in the gardening community for its distinctiveness and exceptional flavor. It is often featured in gardening blogs and social media as a must-have for tomato enthusiasts and gardeners who appreciate heirloom varieties with a unique twist.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Marigolds are excellent companion plants as they help repel nematodes and other pests, while carrots have shallow roots that won't compete with the tomatoes for nutrients. Avoid planting tomatoes near potatoes, peppers, or other solanaceous crops, as these may increase the risk of disease."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Brad's Atomic Grape Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 250 mg - Wholesale - Approximately 160 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 4,580 Seeds
• 1 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 18,330 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 73,320 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 293,280 Seeds