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.