Growing their own food is becoming more popular as organic and sustainable farming methods gain popularity. Heirloom tomatoes are the most in-demand of all.
An heirloom tomato is what? The term “heirloom” refers to a tomato seed that has been kept over many generations; these tomatoes can be over a century old.
Heirloom tomatoes are grown for their size, color, and flavor, and they offer a variety of distinctive qualities that are generally absent from regular tomatoes.
Heirloom tomato types are variations on the common tomato, including differences in texture, size, acidity, skin thickness, and color.
Some of the best heritage tomato types, renowned for their high fruit quality and quantity, to produce in your own garden this summer are:
Black Cherry
Black cherry tomatoes are renowned for their deep reddish-black skin and sweet, juicy flavor. Despite their small size, these plants require a cage structure for adequate vertical support. They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Additionally, they offer a range of vitamins, including A, B, and C, which contribute to healthy vision and strong immunity. Black cherry tomatoes thrive in temperatures between 50°F and 90°F and can grow up to 1.5 inches in diameter. Purchase seeds here.
Brandywine (Sudduths Strain)
The Brandywine (Sudduths Strain) is a large Beefsteak variety, ideal for sandwiches and stews. With its pinkish-red skin, this tomato features a smooth texture and a mild flavor with low acidity. These tomatoes require careful attention, including a sheltered spot with 8 hours of sunlight daily and fresh soil that hasn’t been previously used for other crops. They have a longer maturity period of 80-90 days. Buy seeds here.
Dixie Golden Giant
Originating from the Amish community in the 1930s, the Dixie Golden Giant is known for its substantial fruit size, often reaching up to 2 pounds. Its bright yellow skin and mild flavor make it a visually appealing and tasty choice for any garden. This variety has a shorter maturity period compared to many heirloom tomatoes. Purchase seeds here.
Delicious Tomato
Delicious tomatoes are smooth with a firm texture and delicate skin, perfect for sandwiches and salads. True to their name, they are juicy and flavorful, growing up to 4-6 feet tall with a maturity period of 77 days. The plants are identified by their yellow flowers and produce fruits weighing between 1-2 pounds. Notably, the largest tomato ever recorded was a Delicious tomato weighing around 7 pounds. Buy seeds here.
Chocolate Stripes
Chocolate Stripes tomatoes are distinguished by their marbled brown and red skin and offer an earthy flavor with a firm, mild taste. Proper watering is crucial; only water when the top 1-3 inches of soil are dry to avoid cracks that can spoil the fruit. Use nitrogen-based fertilizer to encourage growth, but discontinue it once the tomatoes start to sprout to prevent inhibiting their development. This heirloom variety often produces irregularly shaped fruits throughout the season. Buy seeds here.
Blondkopfchen
Blondkopfchen tomatoes are small, oval-shaped, and have a striking gold color. Known for their sweetness, these cherry tomatoes are about half an inch across and are produced in large quantities throughout the summer. Buy seeds here.
Azoychka
Azoychka tomatoes are a Russian heirloom variety appreciated for their tart acidity and juicy texture. The fruits typically reach about half a pound and have a maturity period of approximately 73 days. Buy seeds here.
Amana Orange
The Amana Orange variety features large Beefsteak fruits with a yellowish-orange skin and a smooth, firm texture. Typically growing to around 1 pound, these tomatoes are known for their rich and smooth flavor. They have a maturity period of 80-90 days and are suited for the summer and spring seasons. Buy seeds here.
Black Krim
Black Krim tomatoes are noted for their purplish-red skin and sweet flavor. They are juicy and flavorful, making them a great addition to salads and sandwiches. Often reaching about 1 pound in size, they make an impressive addition to any garden. Buy seeds here.
Brandywine
Brandywine tomatoes are easily recognized by their pinkish-red skin and creamy texture, making them a favorite among gardeners.
That concludes the matter! Any of these tomatoes you grow yourself will taste so much better than anything you can buy at the store, and you can conserve them for the following season by using heirloom seeds.
That’s preparation and homesteading!