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Red Brandywine Heirloom

Solanum lycopersicum

$3.99

420 mg Approximately

The Brandywine Heirloom Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), a beloved heirloom variety, is known for its large, flavorful fruits, weighing up to 1.5 pounds each, with a sweet, robust flavor. It produces large, red, slightly ribbed tomatoes, making it ideal for slicing, sandwiches, and sauces.

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1072 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 7-14 days
  • Days to Maturity: 80-90 days from transplant
  • Fruit Size: 10-16 oz, up to 24 oz in some cases
  • Vine Type: Indeterminate (requires support)
  • Sun Requirement: Full sun
  • Spacing: 2-3 feet apart in rows spaced 3-4 feet apart
  • Ideal Soil pH: 6.0-6.5 (slightly acidic)

Sowing and Transplanting Instructions

Starting Seeds Indoors:

  • Timing: Begin 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
  • Depth and Spacing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, 1 inch apart in seed-starting mix.
  • Temperature: Maintain soil temperature at 75-85¡F for optimal germination; a heating mat is recommended.
  • Lighting: Place seedlings under grow lights or in a sunny window with at least 8 hours of light daily.
  • Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist, ensuring adequate drainage.

Transplanting Outdoors:

  • Timing: Transplant after all danger of frost has passed, and nighttime temperatures are above 55¡F.
  • Hardening Off: Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions by exposing them to the outdoors over 5-7 days.
  • Planting Depth: Bury the stem deeply, up to the lowest set of leaves, to promote a strong root system.
  • Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart with 3-4 feet between rows for good air circulation.

Growing Conditions

  • Soil: Brandywine Tomatoes prefer rich, well-drained soil amended with compost or organic matter.
  • Watering: Provide consistent moisture at the soil level, avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent disease.
  • Fertilizing: At transplant, add a high-phosphorus fertilizer (5-10-10). Reapply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
  • Mulching: Use mulch to conserve moisture, control weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Ripeness: Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they reach their full red color and give slightly when pressed.
  • Harvest Method: Gently twist or use scissors to cut ripe tomatoes from the vine, keeping the stem attached.
  • Storage: Store tomatoes at 45-60¡F for up to a week. For the best flavor, avoid refrigerating fully ripe tomatoes.

Tips for Success

  • Support and Pruning: Use cages, stakes, or a trellis to support the heavy fruits. Prune bottom leaves and suckers below the first strong branch to enhance airflow.
  • Pollination: If flowers arenÕt setting, gently shake the plant or use an electric toothbrush near flowers to encourage pollination.
  • Companion Planting: Tomatoes grow well with carrots, onions, and basil. Avoid planting near cabbage or potatoes to reduce disease risk.

The Brandywine Heirloom Tomato, with its intense flavor and robust growth, is a rewarding addition to any home garden. Its vigorous vines and large fruits make it ideal for gardeners looking for a versatile, flavorful tomato that adds both beauty and taste to the garden.