Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds

Non-GMO. Indeterminate. Open pollinated. Not container friendly. Regular leaf foliage. These Cherokee Purple Tomato seeds produce large beefsteak type tomatoes with rich pink and purple hues of flesh and meat. These tomatoes are a popular American heirloom. These delicious dark tomatoes are among the most popular heirloom tomatoes for slicing and eating fresh similar to Black Krim and Brandywine. The balance between sweetness and acidity makes this tomato an excellent choice for recipes such soup, stews and more. Cherokee Purple tomato plants grow thick and sturdy indeterminate vines. Plants can reach over 6′ tall so they will need to be caged or staked to keep the heavy fruit off the ground. Staking will also help allow proper airflow and reduce the chance of soil born plant diseases. Growers during the 1990’s reintroduced this seed after having been forgotten for nearly 100 years. These meaty tomatoes are said to have been grown by the Cherokee Indians.

Growing Cherokee Purple Tomato Seeds

Since tomatoes are a warm weather crop, the seeds are best started indoors about 6-8 weeks prior to final spring frost. Plant 1-2 seeds approximately 1/4″ deep per cell in damp, well-drained soil. If both seeds sprout you can cull the weaker seedling once they reach approximately two inches in height. Cherokee Purple Tomato seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days. The seedlings should be planted in rich, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Plants should be spaced about 18 inches apart in the garden. Tomatoes can be grown in containers of at least 5 gallons. Indeterminate varieties such as these Purple Cherokee grow indefinitely through the season, producing non-stop fruit crop. It’s best to let tomatoes ripen on the vine when possible but can be harvested early and allowed to ripen indoors.

Be sure and check out our shop and take a look at our other tomato seeds as well.