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NewTHM tomato cherocke
TOMATO Cherokee Purple (Heirloom) (Solanum lycopersicum)

Cherokee Purple Heirloom

Solanum lycopersicum

$3.99

390 mg Approximately

The Cherokee Purple Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a celebrated heirloom variety dating back over a century, initially grown by the Cherokee Indians. Known for its distinctive smoky-sweet flavor and dusky purple-pink color, the Cherokee Purple is a highly prized, indeterminate tomato variety that produces large, 10-12 oz fruits with a unique, old-fashioned taste.

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1147 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 7-14 days
  • Days to Maturity: 80 days from transplant
  • Plant Height: Vines require staking or caging as they are indeterminate
  • Sun Preference: Full sun
  • Soil pH: 6.0 6.8
  • Spacing: 24 inches apart, with rows spaced 3 feet apart

Starting Indoors:

  • Timing: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
  • Depth: Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed-starting mix.
  • Conditions: Ideal soil temperatures for germination are 75-95°F. Cover containers with plastic to retain moisture until germination begins.
  • Light: Once seedlings emerge, provide 12-16 hours of light daily to prevent leggy growth.

Transplanting Outdoors:

  • Timing: Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 4-6 leaves, and when the danger of frost has passed.
  • Depth and Method: Plant deeply, burying the stem and leaving only the top leaves above ground to encourage strong root development.
  • Site: Choose a sunny, well-drained location enriched with compost or well-rotted manure.

Care Instructions

  • Watering: Water consistently, providing 1-2 inches per week. Water at the base to keep foliage dry and prevent disease.
  • Mulching: Apply mulch to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed growth.
  • Support: Use stakes or cages, as Cherokee Purple tomatoes are indeterminate and will continue to grow and produce throughout the season.
  • Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer, with a focus on phosphorus and potassium to support flowering and fruiting.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage growth and delay fruiting.

Harvesting and Storage

  • When to Harvest: Tomatoes are ready for harvest when they reach their full color (a dusky purple-pink hue) and are slightly soft to the touch.
  • Method: Harvest by twisting or snipping to avoid damaging the stem.
  • Storage: Store tomatoes at room temperature for 4-7 days. For longer storage, select fruits that are slightly less ripe and keep them in a cooler area (45-60°F).

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are ideal for fresh eating, slicing, and sauces, adding unique flavor and color to dishes. With its rich, smoky-sweet taste, this variety is a favorite for heirloom enthusiasts and adds a conversational touch to any garden.