Days to Maturity: 80 from transplant
Indeterminate
The Cherokee Purple Tomato, an exquisite heirloom variety revered as much for its deep, complex flavor as for its distinctive violet-purple coloring, embodies over a century of history. Originating from the Cherokee nation in Tennessee, this legacy plant yields substantial beefsteaks that can reach up to a pound each, presenting a lavish display of color, flavor, and heritage. As one of the most cherished heirloom tomatoes, the Cherokee Purple is a testament to the richness of American agricultural past.
Each tomato, with its slightly ridged, symmetrically round shape, bursts with juicy goodness and a robust tomato tang far surpassing the blandness of common supermarket finds. These large plants produce hefty fruits that may require additional support to counter their considerable weight. Vigorous staking and occasional extra support will ensure the successful harvest of these purple heirloom tomatoes.
The indeterminate nature of the Cherokee Purple Tomato means it continues to grow and produce new fruit throughout the summer, making it a prolific choice for gardeners. For those who aspire to grow tomatoes of exceptional size, thinning to a few flowers allows the plant to focus its energy on developing fewer, but larger fruits. However, the allure of Cherokee Purple Tomatoes is such that having more to enjoy and share is often preferable.
Craig LeHoullier, the notable seed saver from Green of Sevierville, played a pivotal role in popularizing this variety, which stands as a beacon for seed savers and heirloom tomato enthusiasts alike. By saving seeds from your Cherokee Purple tomato plants, you contribute to the preservation and continuation of this unique lineage.
To cultivate Cherokee Purple Tomatoes, start with high-quality seeds, ensuring a garden filled with vibrant, rose-colored fruits that are as nutritious as they are flavorful. These tomatoes are not only a source of beauty and taste but also carry the potential for blossom end rot resistance, making them a robust choice for your garden.
Discover the joy of tomato gardening with the Seed to Spoon App, your digital companion in the quest for the perfect tomato. This app offers a wealth of knowledge specifically tailored to growing tomatoes, providing guidance on the best planting times, care tips, and harvesting techniques. From choosing the right tomato varieties to understanding the nuances of soil health and pest control, Seed to Spoon makes it easier than ever to cultivate luscious, homegrown tomatoes. Whether you're a first-time gardener or looking to refine your tomato-growing skills, this app is an invaluable tool for achieving a bountiful harvest.
