Tomato Seeds, Missouri Pink Love Apple

star-filled
4.5
17 Reviews
Sku:
#TK128
Min. seed count:
25
$3.50

Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). The big, pink fruit are very rich-tasting, certainly a favorite pink tomato. This potato-leaf variety has a long history in the “Show Me” state. It was grown since the Civil War by the Barnes family, who grew it as an ornamental, believing (as many people did at the time) that tomatoes, or “love apples,” were poisonous. We are grateful the Barnes family kept this variety going so we can enjoy the wonderful fruit today.

  • Indeterminate
  • 75-85 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

Missouri Pink Love Apple is a cherished heirloom beefsteak tomato that grows best in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of it daily. Grow in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Maintain consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and prevent weeds. Use stakes or cages to support the vines and encourage healthy fruit development.

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost date in your region. Transplant outdoors only after the danger of frost has passed and the temperature doesn’t drop below 60 F. For shorter growing seasons, raised beds or black plastic mulch can help warm the soil and extend growing time.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil temperature between 70-80 F during germination, using a heat mat if necessary. Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant them about 24 inches apart. When planting, bury two-thirds of the stem to encourage a strong root system.

How to Grow

Fertilize at planting with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, and side-dress with compost or additional fertilizer throughout the season. Remove suckers to direct the plant’s energy toward fruit production. Monitor for pests such as aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies.

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

How big do Missouri Pink Love Apple tomatoes get?
The fruits are large, beefsteak-style tomatoes, often weighing 10-16 ounces each.

Are these Missouri Pink Love Apple tomatoes good for canning?
Yes, their sweet flavor and meaty texture make them excellent for canning as well as fresh eating.

How do I manage pests for the Missouri Pink Love Apple tomato?
Handpick pests like hornworms and use organic solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap for smaller insects like aphids.

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

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Tomato Seeds, Missouri Pink Love Apple
star-filled
4.5
Customer reviews (17)

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