Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds, Very Old Cherokee Indian Variety Germinal Planting Seeds

Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds – Heirloom Variety

Key Attributes:

• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO
• Growth Habit: Indeterminate (produces fruit continuously throughout the season)
• Fruit Characteristics: Large, beefsteak-style, deep reddish-purple skin with rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor
• Mature Height: 4-6 feet
• Days to Maturity: 75-85 days
• Uses: Fresh eating, slicing, sandwiches, salads, and gourmet dishes

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• No special preparation required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours to speed up germination.

Sowing Guidelines:

Indoor Sowing (Recommended for Early Start):

• Start seeds 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
• Plant ¼ inch deep in seed trays or containers with fine, well-draining soil.
• Maintain a soil temperature of 70-80°F (21-27°C) for best germination.
• Provide 12-16 hours of light daily using grow lights or a sunny windowsill.

Outdoor Sowing:

• Direct sowing is not recommended, but if necessary, plant after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).

Transplanting & Growing Conditions:

Transplanting:

• Move seedlings outdoors when they are 6-8 inches tall and nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C).
• Harden off by gradually introducing plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.

Spacing & Support:

• Space plants 18-24 inches apart with rows 36 inches apart.
• Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support the large vines and prevent fruit from touching the ground.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering. Water at the base to prevent fungal diseases.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) every 3-4 weeks or apply compost for organic nutrition.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pruning: Remove lower leaves and suckers (small shoots between main stems) to improve airflow and fruit production.

Harvesting & Storage:

• When to Harvest:
  • Fruits are ready to harvest when they develop their deep purple-red color and have a slight give when gently squeezed.
  • Typically 75-85 days after transplanting.
• Storage:
  • Store at room temperature for best flavor.
  • If refrigerating, consume within 1-2 weeks.