Single Carbon tomato with a slice removed on a white background.
A half dozen whole Carbon Tomatoes with slices arranged on plate with a knife.
Carbon Tomatoes arranged on a wooden cutting board with a knife.
Cut and whole Carbon Tomatoes arranged on a wooden platter. Image by Lucy Hutchins.
Single Carbon tomato with a slice removed on a white background.
A half dozen whole Carbon Tomatoes with slices arranged on plate with a knife.
Carbon Tomatoes arranged on a wooden cutting board with a knife.
Cut and whole Carbon Tomatoes arranged on a wooden platter. Image by Lucy Hutchins.

Tomato Seeds,
Carbon

4.157 ReviewsSKU: #TP112Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). These have won taste awards coast to coast in the last few years, so we were proud to locate a small supply of seed. The fruit is smooth, large, and beautiful, being one of the darkest and prettiest of the purple types we have seen. They seem to have an extra dose of the complex flavor that makes dark tomatoes famous.

Growing Tips: Carbon tomatoes grow best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Choose a spot where the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of full sunlight daily. Consistent watering is also very important; keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging to prevent diseases like blossom-end rot.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Solanum lycopersicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Indeterminate
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60 F. This typically means late spring to early summer. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post "Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources."

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in a sterile seed-starting mix. The ideal temperature for germination is 70-80 F, you can use a heat mat if necessary. Before moving the seedlings outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over a week. Space plants 24 inches apart in the garden for good air circulation.

How to Grow

Carbon tomatoes will need staking, caging, or trellising to support their vining growth habit. Regularly prune by removing suckers (the shoots that develop between the stem and branches) to promote better air circulation and focus the plant's energy on fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and side-dress with compost or organic fertilizer every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season.

How to Save Seeds

  • Most tomatoes are self-pollinating and don't frequently cross; in a garden setting, separating by 25 feet should prevent 99% of cross-pollination. Or you can bag and hand pollinate for 100% purity.
  • On a small scale, seeds may be scooped from the fruits and dried on a paper towel.
  • For larger quantities or cleaner seeds, fermentation for a few days is recommended.
  • Once dry, tomato seed can be stored in a cool, dry, dark place; good seed retains viability for 5 years or more.

FAQ

Can I grow Carbon tomatoes in containers?

Yes, they can be grown in containers if the container is at least 5 gallons in size and proper support is given for the vining growth.

How long does it take for Carbon tomatoes to mature?

Under optimal conditions, it typically takes about 90 days from transplanting to harvest. The plants will continue to produce fruit throughout the season.

How do Carbon tomatoes taste?

They have a rich, balanced taste with a unique smoky-sweet flavor, distinguishing them from other heirloom varieties.

Browse our full range of heirloom tomato seeds.
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