Tomato Seeds, Abe Lincoln Original

star-filled
4
46 Reviews
Sku:
#TM260
Min. seed count:
25
$3.50

Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). The Original Abe Lincoln tomato: This wonderful old heirloom was shared with us by Diann Dirks–The Garden Lady of Georgia. Diann is a seed saver and seed sharer at heart and received this variety from a gentleman she had struck up a conversation with one day while pumping gas. She writes “A man (in his 80s?) and I got to talking while pumping gas and I told him I collected seeds. He said he grew the original Abe Lincoln tomato--not the ones that were later sold but from the 1923 seed catalog.” Released by H.W. Buckbees in 1923, this meaty variety has incredibly thick flesh with a tiny seed core and great old-fashioned tomato flavor. Vines are indeterminate with medium to very large red fruit. Vines in our 2016 trial here in southern Missouri were not excessively vigorous but yielded well nonetheless and with no apparent sunburning.

  • Indeterminate
  • 80 days to maturity
  • 6-8 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 7-14 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/8"
  • Plant Spacing: 24"
  • Ideal Temperature: 75-95 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Plant in a location that receives full sun exposure, for at least 6-8 hours daily. Use well-draining, nutrient-rich loam soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Regular deep watering, about 1-2 times weekly, helps prevent stress; adjust based on rainfall.

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 soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F. Check your local region’s frost dates for a specific planting time.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed-starting trays. Once seedlings have 2-3 sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors, spacing plants 24 inches apart. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days before transplanting.

How to Grow

Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Prune by removing suckers to promote better airflow and focus the plant's energy on fruit production.

How to Save

  • 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

Is the Abe Lincoln Original tomato determinate or indeterminate?
It is an indeterminate variety, producing fruit continuously until frost, with a vining growth habit.

Can the Abe Lincoln Original tomato be grown in containers?
Yes, but choose a large container (at least 5 gallons) with good drainage and provide sturdy support for the plant.

How does the Abe Lincoln Original tomato taste?
It has a rich, slightly acidic flavor, making it ideal for slicing and fresh consumption.

More Questions?
Check out our "Tomatoes 101" blog post by staff horticulturist John Lenz.

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Tomato Seeds, Abe Lincoln Original
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Customer reviews (46)

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