Cherokee Purple Tomato

Description

Cherokee Purple is a popular heirloom tomato variety known for its unique appearance, rich flavor, and historical significance. Here’s a description:

1. **Appearance:** Cherokee Purple tomatoes are medium to large in size, typically weighing 8-12 ounces, but can sometimes reach up to 1 pound. They have a deep, dusky purple-brown skin with green shoulders and a slightly irregular shape. The flesh inside is a striking deep reddish-purple color.

2. **Flavor:** Renowned for its exceptional flavor, Cherokee Purple tomatoes have a complex, sweet, and rich taste with a hint of smokiness. They are often described as having a sweet, earthy flavor reminiscent of old-fashioned tomatoes, with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

3. **Texture:** The flesh of Cherokee Purple tomatoes is smooth, juicy, and meaty, making them ideal for slicing and adding to sandwiches, salads, or eaten fresh.

4. **Growing Habits:** This variety is indeterminate, meaning it continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season. Cherokee Purple tomatoes tend to have sprawling vines that benefit from staking or trellising for support.

5. **History:** Cherokee Purple tomatoes have a fascinating history, with roots tracing back to the Cherokee people in Tennessee. The seeds were reportedly passed down through generations before being introduced to the wider gardening community in the late 20th century. Today, they are cherished by gardeners and food enthusiasts for their exceptional flavor and cultural significance.

Overall, Cherokee Purple tomatoes are prized for their outstanding flavor, unique appearance, and historical importance, making them a favorite among heirloom tomato enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike.

Planting instructions:

To plant Cherokee Purple tomatoes, here are the steps to follow:

1. **Select a Suitable Location:** Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Cherokee Purple tomatoes thrive in full sun, so aim for a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

2. **Prepare the Soil:** Work the soil well, incorporating organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage. Cherokee Purple tomatoes prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

3. **Planting:** Plant Cherokee Purple tomato seedlings or seeds after the last frost date in your area. Space seedlings about 24-36 inches apart in rows spaced 36-48 inches apart. If planting from seeds, sow them 1/4 inch deep.

4. **Support:** Provide support for the plants by using stakes, cages, or trellises. Cherokee Purple tomato plants can grow quite tall and benefit from support to keep the fruit off the ground and prevent disease.

5. **Watering:** Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells or periods of
drought. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as overwatering can lead to problems such as root rot.

6. **Mulching:** Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. **Fertilizing:** Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season, following the instructions on the fertilizer package. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

8. **Pruning:** Cherokee Purple tomato plants generally do not require extensive pruning, but you can remove any suckers (small side shoots) that develop in the crotch between the stem and branches to promote airflow and prevent overcrowding.

9. **Harvesting:** Cherokee Purple tomatoes are ready for harvest when they reach their full mature color, which is a deep, dusky purple-brown with a slight give when gently squeezed. Harvest the fruit by gently twisting it off the vine, taking care not to damage the plant.

By following these planting instructions, you can successfully grow Cherokee Purple tomatoes and enjoy their delicious flavor and unique appearance in your garden.