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Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Growing and Caring for Mr. Stripey Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Planting Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

When to Plant: Hold off on planting until the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F (15.6°C). Before transplanting outdoors, gradually accustom the seedlings to outdoor conditions.

Selecting a Planting Site: Choose a spot that receives ample sunlight and has well-drained soil. It’s crucial to avoid areas where nightshade family members (e.g., potatoes, eggplants, peppers) were grown in the previous year.

Spacing, Depth, and Support: Mr. Stripey tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they grow vigorously. Plant them at least 3 feet apart in each direction. Provide sturdy support, such as stakes or cages, at planting time.

Mr. Stripey Tomato Care

Light: Like all tomatoes, Mr. Stripey requires a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil: Plant in loamy, nutrient-rich, well-drained soil that has been amended with organic matter. Maintain a slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 6.8).

Water: Tomatoes are susceptible to wilting and diseases if not watered adequately. Establish a regular watering schedule, providing deep and regular waterings without allowing the soil to dry out. During heat waves, water daily or even twice daily. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote the spread of diseases.

Temperature and Humidity: Mr. Stripey thrives in warm climates but can also be grown in cooler regions. Protect plants from frost and avoid high humidity, which can contribute to fungal diseases.

Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for tomatoes, which typically contains higher levels of potassium and calcium. Follow label instructions for application.

Pollination: Mr. Stripey tomatoes are self-pollinating, eliminating the need for external pollinators. However, if you plan to collect seeds, isolate plants from other open-pollinated tomato varieties to prevent cross-pollination.

Harvesting Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

Determining Ripeness: Harvest Mr. Stripey tomatoes 80 to 90 days after transplanting. Instead of relying solely on calendar days, visually inspect tomatoes for a deep color and a slight give when gently squeezed.

Harvesting Technique: Regularly check plants for ripe tomatoes and harvest them by gently twisting them from the vine.

Pruning Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

Why Prune: Pruning indeterminate tomatoes like Mr. Stripey is essential for managing growth and promoting air circulation.

Pruning Stages:

  • Early Season: Remove suckers and long branches touching the ground.
  • Mid-Season: Selectively remove leaves to improve airflow.
  • Late Season (Optional): Cut off the plant’s top and remove immature flowers and tomatoes to divert energy towards ripening existing fruit.

Propagating Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

Method: Propagate Mr. Stripey tomatoes by collecting and storing seeds over winter and using them to start plants from seed the following year.

Growing Mr. Stripey Tomatoes from Seed

Steps:

  • Start seeds indoors in pots for better control over germination.
  • Use a well-draining seed-starting mix.
  • Maintain warm temperatures and provide充足 lighting.
  • Transplant seedlings outdoors when they have developed true leaves.

Potting and Repotting Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

Container Considerations: Growing Mr. Stripey tomatoes in containers is not ideal due to their large size and heavy fruit, which can cause top-heaviness. However, if desired, use a container of at least 5 gallons with ample drainage holes.

Watering and Fertilizing: Container plants require more frequent watering and fertilizing than garden plants.

Overwintering Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

Lifespan: Like all tomatoes, Mr. Stripey’s life cycle ends with the first frost. In warm climates, plants may persist longer, but they will eventually exhaust their reserves and cease producing significant fruit.

Common Pests and Diseases

Susceptibility: Tomatoes are prone to various diseases, including late blight, blossom end rot, and bacterial spot. Mr. Stripey is particularly susceptible to cracking caused by irregular watering practices.

Prevention and Treatment: Implement crop rotation, provide adequate spacing, and maintain proper watering schedules to minimize disease and pest issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between Mr. Stripey and Tigerella tomatoes?

A: Mr. Stripey and Tigerella are distinct tomato varieties with different characteristics, including size, color, and ripening time.

Q: Is Mr. Stripey low-acidity?

A: Yes, Mr. Stripey has a low acidity level, making it sweeter than some other tomato varieties.

Q: Is Mr. Stripey a beefsteak tomato?

A: Yes, Mr. Stripey produces large, meaty tomatoes that are classified as beefsteak tomatoes.

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Gardening

Growing Heirloom Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide to Planting, Care, and More

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Growing Heirloom Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Planting Heirloom Tomatoes

Heirloom tomatoes are beloved for their exceptional flavors and rich history. Growing these prized plants is surprisingly straightforward, especially with the right techniques.

  • When to Plant: Spring is the ideal time to plant heirloom tomatoes, after the threat of frost has passed.
  • Selecting a Planting Site: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Avoid planting in areas where tomatoes or related plants (e.g., peppers, eggplant) have been grown recently to minimize disease risk.
  • Spacing, Depth, and Support: Space plants 2-3 feet apart, depending on their variety. Set seedlings deeply to strengthen their support systems. Consider using tall cages or trellises for support as heirloom tomatoes can become large and robust.

Heirloom Tomato Plant Care

  • Light: Heirloom tomatoes require ample sunlight, at least six hours per day.
  • Soil: Thriving heirloom tomatoes prefer rich, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Improve heavy clay soil with raised beds or container culture.
  • Water: Water deeply and regularly, especially during fruit production. Avoid overwatering and allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent problems like cracking and blossom end rot.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Heirloom tomatoes thrive in warm temperatures, with night temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Humid conditions are generally not a concern for these plants.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to support growth and fruit production.

Types of Heirloom Tomatoes

There are countless varieties of heirloom tomatoes, each with its unique characteristics. Here are a few popular types:

  • Brandywine: Known for its large, pinkish-red fruits with a complex, flavorful taste.
  • Black Krim: Originating from Russia, this variety boasts sweet, robustly flavored maroon fruits.
  • Aunt Ruby’s German Green: These beefsteak tomatoes remain green until harvest, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Heirloom Tomatoes vs. Hybrid Tomatoes

While heirloom and hybrid tomatoes may appear similar, they differ in some key aspects. Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated, meaning they can be grown from saved seeds and will produce plants identical to the parent plant. Hybrid tomatoes, on the other hand, are developed by crossbreeding different varieties and cannot be reliably grown from saved seeds.

Harvesting Heirloom Tomatoes

Heirloom tomatoes are ready for harvest when their color begins to peak. Leaving them on the vine for too long can encourage cracking. Green-ripening varieties may be tricky to judge, but they typically shift from mint green to chartreuse or streaky green as they approach maturity. The fruits will also soften slightly.

Growing Heirloom Tomatoes in Pots

For space-limited gardeners or those who prefer the flexibility of container gardening, heirloom tomatoes can be successfully grown in pots.

  • Choosing the Right Pot: Use a large pot (12-16 inches for young plants, 24 inches for larger plants) with drainage holes.
  • Soil: Select a high-quality potting mix with good drainage and organic matter.
  • Water and Fertilize: Container-grown tomatoes need more frequent watering and fertilization than those grown in the ground. Water daily and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Pruning Heirloom Tomatoes

Pruning can improve plant productivity and manage growth.

  • Removing Suckers: Remove suckers at the plant base to direct energy towards fruit production.
  • Pruning Side Shoots: Prune side shoots that appear between the stem and branches to reduce the number of fruiting branches and increase fruit size.

Propagating Heirloom Tomatoes

Tomato cuttings can be easily rooted to create new plants.

  • Taking Cuttings: Choose suckers that are at least 6 inches long and remove the lower leaves, leaving two at the top.
  • Rooting Cuttings: Plant the cuttings in a pot of rich potting soil or a glass of water. Keep the medium moist and provide bright, indirect light.

Growing Heirloom Tomatoes from Seed

Starting heirloom tomatoes from seed is a cost-effective way to grow these plants.

  • Sowing Seeds: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep into moist, sterile potting soil. Keep the soil warm and provide bright, indirect light or grow lights.

Potting and Repotting

  • Young Plants: Start young tomato plants in 1-gallon or larger pots.
  • Repotting: Repot into larger pots as plants outgrow their containers. Use premium potting soil with good drainage.

Common Pests and Plant Diseases

Pest and disease resistance vary among different heirloom tomato varieties. Common pests include tomato hornworms, aphids, and flea beetles. Fungal diseases and bacterial infections can also affect heirloom tomatoes, particularly in humid conditions.

Additional Tips for Growing Heirloom Tomatoes

  • Companion Planting: Planting basil, chives, or mint near heirloom tomatoes can deter pests and improve flavor.
  • Mulching: Mulching around tomato plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during fruit production.
  • Fertilizing: Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to support growth and fruit production.
  • Pruning: Prune suckers and side shoots to improve productivity and fruit size.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Monitor plants regularly for pests and diseases, and take appropriate control measures as needed.
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Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Cherokee Purple Tomatoes

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

Growing and Caring for Cherokee Purple Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Overview

The Cherokee Purple tomato is an heirloom beefsteak variety known for its unique dusky rose color, green shoulders, and deep, rich flavor. It is an indeterminate type, meaning the vines can grow to be quite long and produce fruit over a long period of time.

Growing Conditions

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in most climates. They prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. They also need plenty of sunlight, at least six hours per day.

Planting

Cherokee Purple tomatoes can be started from seed indoors or outdoors. If starting indoors, sow the seeds 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Harden off the seedlings before transplanting them outdoors. When transplanting, space the plants 2 to 3 feet apart.

Watering

Cherokee Purple tomatoes need about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Fertilize Cherokee Purple tomatoes with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.

Pruning

Pruning Cherokee Purple tomatoes can help to improve air circulation and fruit production. Early in the season, pinch out the suckers, which are the leafy new growth that forms at the junction of two vines. Later in the season, you can prune back the vines by about a third to encourage ripening.

Harvesting

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe. The fruit will be a uniform dusky red color and will give slightly when gently pressed.

Pests and Diseases

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, blister beetles, tomato hornworms, and fall armyworms. Common diseases include blossom end rot, blossom drop, and tomato wilt.

Troubleshooting

Blossom End Rot

Blossom end rot is a common problem with tomatoes, including Cherokee Purple tomatoes. It is caused by a calcium deficiency. To prevent blossom end rot, make sure to water your tomatoes regularly and fertilize them with a calcium-rich fertilizer.

Blossom Drop

Blossom drop is another common problem with tomatoes. It is caused by a variety of factors, including stress, extreme temperatures, and poor pollination. To prevent blossom drop, make sure to water your tomatoes regularly, protect them from extreme temperatures, and provide them with plenty of pollinators.

Tomato Wilt

Tomato wilt is a serious disease that can affect Cherokee Purple tomatoes. It is caused by a fungus that lives in the soil. There is no cure for tomato wilt, but you can prevent it by planting your tomatoes in well-drained soil and rotating your crops.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know when Cherokee Purple tomatoes are ripe?

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are ripe when they are fully red and give slightly when gently pressed.

What are other purple tomato varieties?

Other purple tomato varieties include ‘Black from Tula’, ‘Black Krim’, and ‘Brandywine Black’.

When do you transplant Cherokee Purple plants grown from seed to the outside?

Wait until your plants are 6 to 8 inches tall and be sure to harden them off before transplanting. Cherokee Purple will tolerate short periods of overnight temperatures in the low ’50’s, but don’t expect them to do much until temperatures remain at 65 degrees or above.

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Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Yellow Pear Tomatoes

by Keira
written by Keira

Growing and Caring for Yellow Pear Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Planting Yellow Pear Tomatoes

Yellow pear tomatoes are a popular heirloom variety known for their sweet flavor and unique pear shape. They are relatively easy to grow and thrive in most climates.

  • When to Plant: Transplant seedlings after the last frost date when soil temperatures reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Site Selection: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil and a pH between 6.2 and 6.8. Avoid areas where water accumulates.
  • Spacing and Support: Plant seedlings 2 1/2 feet apart in rows at least 3 feet apart. Provide support for the vines, as they can grow up to 8 feet long.

Yellow Pear Tomato Plant Care

  • Light: Yellow pear tomatoes require at least 8 hours of full sun per day.
  • Soil: Amend the soil with plenty of compost and ensure it is well-drained.
  • Water: Water deeply at least once a week, especially during hot, dry weather. Use drip irrigation or water at soil level to avoid disease.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer, and apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer when the plants start blooming.
  • Pollination: Yellow pear tomatoes are self-pollinating, so they do not require additional pollinators.

Other Types of Pear Tomato

In addition to yellow pear tomatoes, there are several other types of pear-shaped tomatoes worth considering:

  • Red Pear: A rare heirloom variety with bright red, 2-inch fruits.
  • Chocolate Pear: A unique variety with light red fruits swirled with shades of green and brown.
  • Umberto Pear: An older heirloom type with pink, meaty, 2-oz fruits.
  • Flaming Burst: A sweeter, smaller version of Jaune Flammee with tiny, golden, 1-inch fruits.

Harvesting Yellow Pear Tomatoes

  • When to Harvest: Yellow pear tomatoes are ready to harvest when they turn a uniform lemon color and are slightly soft when pressed.
  • How to Harvest: You can harvest individual ripe fruits or cut off entire clusters.

Growing Yellow Pear Tomatoes in Pots

  • Container Size: Choose a pot that is at least 10 gallons in size with drainage holes.
  • Soil Mix: Use a high-quality potting mix with added compost.
  • Support: Provide support for the vines, as they will need it as they grow.
  • Watering and Fertilizing: Water more frequently than plants in the ground and fertilize regularly.

Pruning

  • Suckers: Remove suckers that appear at the juncture of branches and the main stem to improve air circulation and fruit production.
  • Heading Back: At the end of the season, remove vines that have not produced fruit and cut back bearing vines to redirect energy to ripening fruits.

Propagating Yellow Pear Tomato

  • From Seed: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Use sterile soil and provide adequate light and warmth for germination.
  • From Suckers: Take healthy suckers from an existing plant, remove lower leaves, and root them in water or soil.

Common Pests and Plant Diseases

  • Pests: Yellow pear tomatoes can be susceptible to aphids and hornworms.
  • Diseases: They can also suffer from fungal diseases such as verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt.

FAQ

  • Can you grow yellow pear tomatoes indoors? Yes, but it is not recommended due to the need for hand pollination and the amount of space required.
  • Do you need two yellow pear tomatoes to get fruit? No, yellow pear tomatoes are self-pollinating.
  • What is a good companion plant for yellow pear tomato? Marigolds, basil, parsley, and chives are all good companion plants for tomatoes.

Additional Tips

  • Start with healthy transplants and well-prepared soil.
  • Rotate your tomato crops each season to prevent disease.
  • Inspect your plants regularly for pests and diseases.
  • Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Provide support for the vines to prevent them from breaking.
  • Prune suckers and head back vines as needed.
  • Fertilize regularly to ensure your plants have the nutrients they need.
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