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Tomato Seeds, Grandma Oliver's Green
Description
(Solanum lycopersicum). This ‘ripe when green’ beefsteak boasts exceptional old-timey flavor. They soften up when ready, so you’ll know when to harvest the meaty, medium-sized fruit by giving it a squeeze. This delectable antique is said to date back to the 1920s in Indiana, and they were first offered by Seed Savers Exchange in the early 1990s.
- 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
To grow Grandma Oliver's green tomato, provide the plants with full sun for 6-8 hours daily. Plant them in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter for best growth. Keep the soil consistently moist by watering at the base of the plants. Given their indeterminate growth habit, these tomatoes might need staking or caging to support the vines and keep fruits off the ground.
When to Grow
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Under ideal conditions, Grandma Oliver's green tomatoes typically mature in about 75 days from transplanting.
How to Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep. They germinate best in a temperature between 70-80 F. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, transplant them into larger containers. Before moving them outdoors, harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Plant seedlings 24 inches apart in the garden to give them enough space for growth and air circulation.
How to Grow
Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress during the growing season as needed. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly monitor for common tomato pests and diseases, employing organic controls when necessary. Harvest fruits when they develop an amber hue and feel slightly soft to the touch.
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
How can I tell when Grandma Oliver's green tomatoes are ripe?
The fruits develop an amber hue and feel slightly soft when fully ripe.
How do Grandma Oliver's green tomatoes taste?
The tomatoes have a sweet and tangy flavor, making them excellent for fresh eating and salads.
How large do Grandma Oliver's green tomatoes typically grow?
The fruits typically weigh between 7 to 16 ounces and measure about 3 inches in diameter.
More Questions?
Check out our "Tomatoes 101" blog post by staff horticulturist John Lenz.
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