Cupid Hybrid Grape Tomato Seeds

Days to Maturity: 66 from transplant

Indeterminate

Like the mischievous god of love for whom it's named, this tomato will make you fall in love . . . but only with its rich flavor, huge yields, and ease of growth. Cupid is a very lucky find, and without a doubt the most flavorful grape tomato ever grown.

Bright red, resistant to cracking, and about 1-inch-long, these charming little fruits arise in huge clusters (like grapes) on vining plants that just don't know how to quit. They are packed with Vitamin C and healthy sugars (measuring 8.2 on the Brix scale), and their texture is almost as appealing as their flavor—they're firm and very smooth, not spongy like some grape tomatoes can be. Perfect for fresh eating, they have great staying power—which is a good thing, because this vine will produce over a long, long season.

Cupid comes with a full package of disease resistance, too, so that those yields stay big and healthy. It is resistant to Fusarium race 1, alternaria stem canker, and Stemphylium. Give it a strong cage, stake, or trellis to climb and it will take off vigorously for a whole season of great eating.

This tomato came about in an unusual way. Our All-America Selection (AAS) tester was at a large grower's tomato field with the AAS team, testing the varieties being trialed for AAS award consideration. Nothing was too exciting until the grower suggested that the judges try this new grape variety. It hadn't been submitted for AAS trialing yet, but the judges all raved about the flavor so much that they persuaded the grower to release it to market immediately. And aren't we glad they did—this is simply a scrumptious grape.

Start seeds indoors 5 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant outdoors when danger of frost is past and night temperatures consistently remain above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If an unexpected late frost is forecasted, protect young plants with plastic sheeting or other cover. Set plants 2 to 2½ feet apart.