Purple Bumble Bee Organic

STARTING SEEDLINGS

Start indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor night temps are in the 50-55°F (10-13°C) range. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm, 80°F (27°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside.

When they are 2 inches tall, transplant into 4-inch pots, burying stems up to base of leaves. Maintain around 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant these vigorous indeterminate climbers 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.

GROWING NOTES

Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant tomatoes several inches deeper than they were growing in pots. Provide strong stakes or tall wire cages at planting time as plants grow tall with loads of heavy fruit. Mulch to provide the even moisture that prevents cracking. Don’t overwater once fruit begins to ripen.

HARVEST AND USE

Pick these jewel-like cherry tomatoes when purple skin deepens and lime striping is distinct. For best flavor, let them ripen on the vine until slightly soft to the touch. Great for snacking right out of the garden or tossed into colorful summer salads.