Tomato Pole Brandywine Seed (Lycopersicon - lycopersicum)

heriloomMany gardeners believe that this heirloom is the best tasting tomato in the world! The old Amish variety dating back to 1885 was passed down from generation to generation, and it has won many taste tests over the years. This pink beefsteak type has rich flavor, thin skin, and can weigh up to 1 lb. An indeterminate type, the vine will grow until fall frost and must be staked or caged. Like most heirlooms, Brandywine has not been bred for disease resistance, though it definitely has a strong disposition to be so well loved for so long. It may require a little more pampering and attention than more modern hybrids, but its outstanding flavor is well worth the effort. This packet plants: 15 plants (after thinning).

When to plant outside: Generally started indoors, tomatoes can also be directly seeded outside! Sow in spring, after the average last spring frost and when soil temperatures reach 60 degrees. In warm winter/hot summer areas of the south, southwest, and parts of California, they can also be planted in early fall for winter harvest.

When to start inside: 6-8 weeks before the average last spring frost.

Special Sowing & Germination Instructions: when planting seedlings outside, bury the roots and stem up to the first set of leaves horizontally. Curve the stem above the ground to a vertical position. The stem will sprout roots and develop a strong root system.

Container Tips: Pole (indeterminate) tomatoes can be grown in five-gallon containers. Use a cage or stakes to support vines. One plant per container.

(To view a commonly asked question about growing tomatoes, click here.).

(To view a fact sheet on tomatoes, click here.).