Growing Gum Drop Black Hybrid Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Gum Drop Black Hybrid tomatoes, begin by starting the seeds indoors 7-9 weeks before your last spring frost date. Sow the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inch in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8. Ensure the soil is loose and moisture-retaining, as tomatoes thrive in such conditions. The ideal germination temperature is 65-85°F. After the last frost has passed, and the seedlings are strong and weather-ready, transplant them into your garden, raised beds, or greenhouse. Space the plants 18 to 36 inches apart and maintain a row spacing of 36 inches. Gum Drop Black Hybrid tomatoes are indeterminate, so provide support like a cage or trellis to help the vine-type plants sprawl and continue growing throughout the season. These stunning, deep burgundy tomatoes with emerald stripes are known for their sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of smokiness, making them a prized addition to your garden.

Regular watering is essential to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's crucial to prevent water stress, which can lead to issues like blossom end rot. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture and prevent weeds. Additionally, regular pruning and staking or caging are vital due to the indeterminate growth habit of these tomatoes. Prune away the lower branches and suckers to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of diseases. Consider interplanting basil to enhance the flavor of your tomatoes and to help deter pests. Marigolds and nasturtiums can also serve as natural pest repellents when planted alongside your tomatoes. Provide adequate support for the vines as they grow to prevent them from sprawling on the ground, as this can expose the fruit to rot and pests. Proper spacing and good airflow can also help prevent fungal diseases. Be vigilant for common tomato pests like hornworms and aphids. Regularly inspect your plants and address any pest issues promptly with organic pest control methods to ensure a healthy harvest of these unique and delicious tomatoes.

Harvesting Gum Drop Black Hybrid Tomatoes

The Gum Drop Black Hybrid tomato is an indeterminate variety, which means it continues to produce fruit throughout the growing season. This characteristic allows for an extended harvest period, providing you with fresh tomatoes over an extended timeframe. To know when to harvest these cherry-sized treasures, keep an eye on their appearance and feel. As the tomatoes ripen, their color will transition from green to a dark purple or black, and they should have a slightly soft texture when gently squeezed but not be overly mushy. The flavor becomes sweet and tangy with a hint of smokiness, indicating that they are at their peak ripeness. When harvesting, grasp the tomato gently and twist it away from the vine, as the fruit should come off easily when fully ripe. Use a pair of scissors or gardening shears to snip them if they don't detach easily, being careful not to damage the vine. This method ensures you collect the fruit without harming the plant. Given the indeterminate growth pattern, you can expect to harvest these unique and flavorful tomatoes continually as they ripen over the growing season.

About Gum Drop Black Hybrid Tomato Garden Seeds

The Gum Drop Black Hybrid tomato is a visually captivating and flavorful cherry tomato variety, but it doesn't have a long and storied history like some other heirloom tomatoes. It's a relatively recent addition to the world of tomato cultivation. Bred for its unique appearance and delicious flavor, it was developed to provide gardeners with a distinctive and eye-catching addition to their gardens and meals.

This tomato does well in standard garden plots, raised beds, and even greenhouses, making it versatile for many growing environments. As for container gardens and hanging baskets, the Gum Drop Black Hybrid tomato can be a great choice due to its compact indeterminate growth habit. While it may need some support for its vines, you can grow it successfully in a large container or hanging basket, provided it receives sufficient sunlight, water, and nutrients. This adaptability makes it a good option for gardeners with limited space or those looking to add a unique touch to their patio or balcony gardens.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"To enhance the flavors of your Gum Drop Black Hybrid tomatoes and add a smoky twist, consider giving them a slight smoldering! When grilling outdoors, place these cherry tomatoes on a grill basket or skewer them, and give them a brief stint over the coals. The gentle char will not only impart a delightful smokiness but also intensify their sweet and tangy taste, making them an exceptional addition to salads or salsas. This smoky touch can truly elevate your culinary creations and delight your taste buds."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Gum Drop Black Hybrid Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 70 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 Gum Drop Black Hybrid Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.