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Growing Mamie Brown's Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To cultivate Mamie Brown's tomatoes, start indoors 7-9 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches in well-draining, loose (sandy loam), slightly acidic (6.2 to 6.8) soil that retains moisture. Maintain a germination temperature between 65-85 F and provide full sun exposure. Mamie Brown's tomatoes are determinate, meaning they are more compact, bush-type plants that set their fruit all at once. To ensure a continuous harvest, consider planting multiple seeds or transplants in intervals a week apart. Once the danger of frost has passed and the plants are 24 to 36 inches tall, transplant them outdoors with a spacing of 24 to 36 inches between plants and rows. Mamie Brown's tomatoes typically mature in 80-90 days from transplant, making them late-season producers.

To ensure successful cultivation of Mamie Brown's tomatoes, regular maintenance practices are crucial. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as tomatoes prefer well-draining conditions. Fertilize the plants monthly, ensuring a balance in nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium. Pruning may help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of diseases, but for determinate varieties like Mamie Brown's, minimal pruning is usually required. Companion planting with basil, marigold, or nasturtium can help deter pests and enhance the overall health of the plants. Be vigilant for common tomato pests such as hornworms, aphids, and cutworms, and promptly address any signs of diseases like powdery mildew or fusarium wilt. Consider staking or using tomato cages to support the plants as they grow and bear fruit. Additionally, a layer of mulch around the plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Mamie Brown's Tomatoes

Mamie Brown's tomatoes, being a determinate variety, set their fruit all at once and conclude their harvest period. To determine the optimal time for harvesting, observe the fruits as they reach their mature color, typically a vibrant red-pink. The tomatoes should feel firm yet yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. Additionally, check for a glossy sheen on the skin. Use a pair of sharp garden scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut the tomatoes from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Harvesting when fully ripe ensures the best flavor and texture. Given the determinate nature of Mamie Brown's tomatoes, the bulk of the harvest occurs within a relatively short time frame, making a single thorough harvest generally sufficient.

About Mamie Brown's Tomato Garden Seeds

Mamie Brown's Tomato is an heirloom variety with a rich history dating back to a time when flavorful tomatoes were cherished for their unique qualities. The specific origins of Mamie Brown's are not extensively documented, but it is known to be a beloved heirloom passed down through generations, celebrated for its sweet and rich flavor.

This variety wasn't specifically bred for a particular trait but rather valued for its delicious taste and classic characteristics. Mamie Brown's is well-suited for diverse growing climates, thriving in warmer temperatures typical of many regions.

Mamie Brown's tomatoes have oxheart to oblate-shaped fruits, offering a visual appeal to complement its exceptional flavor. The beefsteak tomatoes are not only delicious fresh but also add a delightful taste to salads.

While Mamie Brown's Tomato is typically grown in traditional garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses, it may present challenges in container gardens or hanging baskets due to its determinate growth habit, which might require more space than these confined environments can provide.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Consider providing adequate support for the plants, especially as they bear heavy fruits. Staking or caging can prevent sprawling and keep the plants upright, ensuring proper air circulation and reducing the risk of disease."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Mamie Brown's 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 Mamie Brown's Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.