Tomato Seeds,
Thorburn's Lemon Blush

4.314 ReviewsSKU: #WW262Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). Sweet, lemon-colored fruit is blushed in lovely salmon pink. There is something nourishing to the soul when growing an heirloom that was resurrected from near extinction! The Thorburn’s Lemon Blush tomato is a beefsteak from antiquity with such magnificent flavor it is a true wonder how it was lost for 107 years! Thanks to Willliam Woys Weaver, legendary seed saver and heirloom expert, for saving and growing out this outstanding tomato. The variety was developed by Elbert Carman, a longtime editor of the Rural New Yorker magazine, and first offered in the Thorburn’s catalog in 1893. It remained a favorite offering until 1912, when it was reselected and renamed Lemon Queen tomato. The variety fell into obscurity until Weaver received the seeds from a rare collection in New Jersey and decided to grow it out and offer it exclusively through Baker Creek. This large, juicy tomato has tropical fruit notes and perfect acidity balance. It is nearly coreless, with firm juicy flesh and few seeds. A true testament to the resilience of heirlooms; be sure to add this incredible artifact to your personal seed bank and garden!

Growing Tips: Thorburn’s Lemon Blush is a beautiful heirloom variety that thrives in full sun with well-draining, fertile soil and consistent watering. Use staking or caging to support the plant and its heavy fruit. If necessary, use a heat mat to help warm up the soil and speed up germination.

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
75
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 frost date in your area. Transplant outdoors only after the frost threat has passed and temperatures stay above 60 F. Check local area’s frost dates to ensure proper timing. 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 seed-starting mix indoors, maintaining a soil temperature of 70-80 F. Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors. Space plants 24 inches apart, with rows 3-4 feet apart. Use sturdy stakes or cages to support the plant.

How to Grow

Prepare nutrient-rich soil by amending it with compost or organic matter. Water deeply and consistently to maintain even soil moisture. Feed plants with a balanced or tomato-specific fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Prune suckers to enhance airflow and channel energy toward fruit production.

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

How large are the fruits of Thorburn’s Lemon Blush tomatoes?

Fruits are large, beefsteak-type tomatoes, nearly coreless with firm, juicy flesh and few seeds.

How do I prevent splitting in Thorburn’s Lemon Blush tomatoes?

Water consistently, as irregular moisture levels are a common cause of fruit splitting.

How does Thorburn’s Lemon Blush tomato taste?

The flavor is rich and full, with tropical fruit notes and a perfect acidity balance. The large, juicy, lemon-colored fruit is blushed in salmon pink and is nearly coreless, making it an excellent choice for fresh and gourmet dishes.

Browse our full range of heirloom tomato seeds.

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