How to Plant and Grow Purple Cherokee Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden, and the Purple Cherokee variety is a favorite among many gardeners. These tomatoes have a unique, deep purple color and a delicious, sweet taste that is perfect for salads and other dishes. If you're interested in planting and growing Purple Cherokee tomatoes in your garden, read on for some helpful tips!

Choosing Your Seeds

The first step in growing any type of tomato is to choose the right seeds. When selecting Purple Cherokee tomato seeds, look for varieties that are certified organic and non-GMO. Online seed catalogs and garden supply stores are a great place to start your search. You can also save seeds from ripe Purple Cherokee tomatoes that you buy from a local farmer's market or grocery store.

Preparing Your Garden Bed

Once you have your seeds, it's time to prepare your garden bed. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, add some compost or sand to improve drainage. Dig a hole for each seedling, leaving about two feet of space between each plant. When planting, bury the seedling up to its first set of leaves. This will encourage strong root growth.

Fertilizing and Watering

Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilizing to grow strong and healthy. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 is a good choice. Apply the fertilizer according to package directions every few weeks throughout the growing season. Water your plants deeply about once a week, depending on rainfall. Tomatoes need consistent moisture, so be sure not to let the soil dry out completely.

Pruning Your Plants

To encourage healthy growth and production, it's important to prune your tomato plants regularly. Remove any suckers that grow in between the main stem and the leaf axils. Also, trim off any leaves that touch the ground, as they can be a breeding ground for disease. Once your plants begin to produce fruit, consider staking or caging them to support the weight of the tomatoes.

Harvesting Your Tomatoes

Finally, it's time to harvest your Purple Cherokee tomatoes! These tomatoes are ready to pick when they turn a deep purple color and feel soft to the touch. Carefully twist the tomato off the vine or use a pair of scissors to cut it off at the stem. Once picked, store your tomatoes in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. They should last for several days to a week.

In conclusion, growing Purple Cherokee tomatoes in your home garden can be a fun and rewarding experience. With a little planning and effort, you'll be enjoying delicious, sweet tomatoes in no time!