Tomato Seeds, Purple Calabash

star-filled
3.7
13 Reviews
Sku:
#TP125
Min. seed count:
10
$3.00

Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). Stocky, ruffled fruit that provides a deliciously nuanced flavor experience. These medium-sized fruits reach about 3 inches across and 1.5 inches high, marbled pink to purple and chocolate in color; this color combination creates a complexity of flavor, with nice acidity but also smoky and sweet! This variety is known to be a good representation of how tomatoes in Mexico looked and tasted before European colonization.

  • Indeterminate
  • 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

Purple Calabash tomatoes grow best in a location that receives full sun 6-8 hours per day. Plant in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Water consistently at the base of the plants to prevent foliage diseases. As an indeterminate variety, Purple Calabash tomatoes require staking or caging to support their vining growth habit. 

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. It’s best to check your local area’s frost dates for a specific planting time. In regions with shorter growing seasons, consider using row covers or planting in a greenhouse to extend the growing period.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed-starting mix, maintaining a temperature between 70-80 F during germination. You can use a heat mat to help speed up the process. After hardening off, space the seedlings about 24 inches apart in the garden for optimal airflow and room for growth.

How to Grow

Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and side-dress during the growing season. Prune by removing suckers to promote better airflow and focus the plant's energy on fruit development. Mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Monitor for common pests like aphids and tomato hornworms, using organic controls as necessary.

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 big do Purple Calabash tomato fruits grow?
The fruits are medium-sized, typically weighing between 4 to 5 ounces.

Can I grow Purple Calabash tomatoes in containers?
Yes, with proper support and a large enough container (at least 5 gallons), they will grow very well. Choose a container that has good drainage and provide a stake or cage for support.

How do Purple Calabash tomatoes taste?
They have a rich, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor, often described as bold and complex. This makes them ideal for salads, sauces, and fresh eating.

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

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Tomato Seeds, Purple Calabash
star-filled
3.7
Customer reviews (13)

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