Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF

Growing Purple Calabash Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

Those venturing into the world of growing purple tomatoes from seed, a step-by-step approach and attention to key factors will lead to a successful and rewarding experience. Begin with high-quality purple tomato seeds from a reputable source. Use a well-draining seed starting mix composed of organic potting soil, coconut coir, and perlite. Plant the seeds about a quarter inch deep in individual containers or cells. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide adequate light, either from natural sunlight or a grow light, to facilitate germination.

Purple tomatoes thrive in warm conditions. Maintain a temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal germination and seedling growth. Once seedlings are established, transplant them outdoors when the threat of frost has passed, typically in spring or early summer. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Monitor seedlings regularly for pests like aphids, spider mites, or caterpillars. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or use organic insecticidal soap if necessary. Promote biodiversity in your garden to attract beneficial insects that contribute to pest control. To boost seedling vitality, provide adequate spacing and ensure good air circulation. Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Consider using a diluted organic fertilizer once seedlings have developed true leaves to provide essential nutrients.

Choose a sunny garden location with well-draining soil enriched with compost. Purple tomatoes benefit from slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve fertility and water retention. Mulching around the plants helps regulate soil temperature and suppress weeds. When seedlings develop true leaves and reach a height of 6-8 inches, transplant them into the garden. Bury the stem, including the lower leaves, to encourage maximum root development. Water transplants thoroughly and consider adding a handful of well-aged compost or worm castings to the planting hole for additional nutrients.

Purple tomatoes, like other indeterminate varieties, benefit from support structures like stakes or cages. Pruning may involve removing suckers that develop in the leaf axils to channel energy into fruit production. Adequate support and pruning ensure healthier plants and ease of harvest. Focus on optimal conditions, pest management, and providing essential care to nurture robust plants that yield delicious, uniquely colored fruits.

Harvesting Purple Calabash Tomatoes

To maximize tomato harvest, pick fruits when they display vibrant color, firmness, and a slight give. Use sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant. Regularly check plants for pests and diseases during harvesting. Inspect leaves, stems, and fruits for signs of infestation or illness, addressing issues promptly. Harvesting ripe tomatoes promptly encourages continuous fruit production and contributes to a healthy, disease-resistant garden.

Enjoy the bounty of indeterminate tomato harvests by incorporating them into salads, sandwiches, or homemade sauces. Preserve excess tomatoes by canning, freezing, or drying. Canning involves processing them in jars with acidic ingredients, while freezing requires blanching before storing whole or chopped tomatoes. Sun-drying involves dehydrating the tomatoes for a concentrated flavor. These methods ensure a year-round supply of flavorful tomatoes from your garden.

About Purple Calabash Tomato Garden Seeds

A novelty variety with prolific production and drought tolerance. The fruits average 5-6 ounces with a ruffled purple-pink color brushed with bronze when ripe and an intense flavor. They are fairly crack-resistant and store well.

Consuming tomatoes daily offers numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, tomatoes support immune function and skin health. Their high antioxidant content, including lycopene, may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, tomatoes provide hydration, promote heart health, and contribute to overall well-being with nutrient density.

Small ruffled purple-pink fruits blushed bronze or chocolate brown when ripe 5-6 oz. Although this tomato is average weight, it packs a punch with intense flavor. Luckily, they are fairly crack-resistant and store well.

Purple Calabash is an indeterminate variety. Unlike determinate varieties with a set growth period, indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. Indeterminate plants do best with staking or caging to support their ongoing growth. Pruning is also useful to manage their vigorous vines, ensuring adequate airflow and focusing energy on fruit development.

Gardeners choose to grow Purple Calabash tomatoes for their unique, deeply ribbed, and vibrant purple-hued fruit. Beyond their striking appearance, these heirloom tomatoes offer a rich, complex flavor, making them a distinctive and flavorful addition to salads, sauces, and culinary creations. The novelty, taste, and versatility make Purple Calabash a preferred choice for gardeners seeking distinct tomato varieties.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Layering Purple Calabash with a bright red variety, such as Ponderosa Red, and a bold yellow variety, such as Giant Belgium Yellow, along with slices of Mozzarella and large Basil leaves would make a stunning caprese salad with out-of-this-world flavor. Don’t forget the drizzle of balsamic glaze to top it off!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Purple Calabash Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 65 Seeds
• .25 oz - Approximately 1,700 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 6,800 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 27,200 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 108,800 Seeds

Non-GMO Purple Calabash Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.