Heirloom Tomato Vegetable Seeds Packet

1. Culinary Uses:

• Perfect for fresh salads, sandwiches, salsas, and sauces.
• Ideal for roasting, grilling, and making fresh tomato soup.
• Can be eaten raw, sliced, or blended into juices.

2. Canning and Preservation:

• Many heirloom varieties are excellent for canning, making tomato paste, and sauces.
• Can be sun-dried or dehydrated for long-term storage.

3. Seed Saving:

• Unlike hybrids, heirloom tomatoes produce true-to-type seeds that can be saved for future plantings.
• Allows gardeners to preserve rare and heritage varieties.

Light:

• Requires full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day.
• In cooler climates, choose a south-facing garden spot to maximize sun exposure.

Soil:

• Prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8.
• Adding compost or aged manure enhances soil fertility.

Watering:

• Needs consistent moisture, about 1-2 inches per week.
• Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Temperature & Climate:

• Grows best in warm temperatures.
• Avoid planting outdoors until after the last frost date.

Fertilization:

• Benefits from balanced fertilizers (10-10-10).
• Too much nitrogen can lead to excess foliage but fewer fruits.

Hardening Off:

• Before moving seedlings outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days.

Providing Support:

• Use cages, stakes, or trellises for indeterminate varieties.
• Determinate varieties may need minimal support.

Mulching:

• Apply a layer of straw, grass clippings, or compost to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

Harvesting and Seed Collection

1. When to Harvest:

• Fruits are ready 60-90 days after transplanting.
• Harvest when tomatoes reach full color and feel slightly soft.

2. Collecting Seeds for Future Planting:

• Scoop out seeds from a fully ripe tomato.
• Ferment seeds in water for 2-3 days to remove gel coating.
• Rinse, dry thoroughly, and store in a cool, dry place.

Common Pests:

• Aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies can attack tomato plants.
• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for organic pest control.

Common Diseases:

• Susceptible to blight, blossom end rot, and fungal infections.
• Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
• Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases.