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Tomato Seeds, Cherokee Purple
Description
(Solanum lycopersicum). An old Cherokee Indian heirloom, pre-1890 variety; beautiful, deep, dusky purple-pink color, superb sweet flavor, and very-large-sized fruit. Try this one for a real old-time tomato flavor. Our favorite dark tomato and one of our best-selling varieties.
- 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
Cherokee Purple tomatoes flourish in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Make sure that the plants receive 6-8 hours of full sun daily. Water often, keeping an even soil moisture but avoid waterlogging to prevent diseases like blossom-end rot.
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 usually means late spring to early summer; however, we recommend you to check your local area’s frost dates for a specific planting time.
How to Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in a nutrient-rich seed-starting mix. Ideally, the soil should be at a temperature of 70-80 F during germination, you can use a heat mat to help with this. Before moving the seedlings outdoors, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Space plants 24 inches apart in the garden for proper air circulation.
How to Grow
As an indeterminate variety, Cherokee Purple tomatoes require support such as staking, caging, or trellising to manage 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
- 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, and good seed retains viability for 5 years or more.
FAQ
Can I grow Cherokee Purple tomatoes in containers?
Yes, they can be grown in containers, as long as the container is at least 5 gallons in size and the plants get proper support for their vining growth.
How big do Cherokee Purple tomatoes typically grow?
These tomatoes are pretty large, averaging 10-16 ounces per fruit, with a beefsteak shape.
Are Cherokee Purple tomatoes good for canning?
While primarily grown for fresh eating, their meaty texture and flavor make them suitable for canning and sauces as well, though their dark color may alter the appearance of canned goods.
More Questions?
Check out our "Tomatoes 101" blog post by staff horticulturist John Lenz.
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