How to Plant Brandywine Tomatoes

Brandywine tomatoes are a popular heirloom variety of tomato that are known for their large size, meaty texture and sweet flavor. They are perfect for salads, sauces and sandwiches. If you want to learn how to plant Brandywine tomatoes, here are some tips to help you get started.

Choose the Right Soil

Brandywine tomatoes prefer a well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. They need plenty of nutrients to grow, so it’s a good idea to add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting. Make sure the soil is well-aerated and has a pH between 6.2 and 6.8.

Start Seeds Indoors

Brandywine tomatoes are generally started from seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost date. They need warm temperatures to germinate, so keep them in a warm spot, around 70-75°F. You can also use a heat mat to help maintain the temperature. When they have sprouted, move them to a cooler location with plenty of light, such as a windowsill or under a grow light.

Transplant Seedlings in Good Weather

Once the weather has warmed up and the soil has reached a consistent temperature of around 60°F, your Brandywine tomato seedlings can be transplanted outside. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots and transplant the seedlings, being careful not to damage the roots. Water well to help settle the soil around the roots.

Water Regularly and Feed as Needed

Brandywine tomatoes require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and thoroughly, at least once a week. Mulching can help retain moisture in the soil, reduce weed growth and keep the soil cool. You can also fertilize every few weeks, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

Support Your Plants

Brandywine tomatoes can grow quite big and heavy, so they need support to prevent them from falling over. You can use stakes or cages to support the plants. The best time to add support is when you transplant the seedlings outdoors. Place the stakes or cages next to the plants and gently tie them to the support using garden twine. This will help your plants grow straight and tall, and reduce the risk of breakage or damage to the fruit.

Harvest Your Tomatoes

Brandywine tomatoes generally take around 80-100 days to mature from seed. They are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe, and their skin is slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist the tomatoes to remove them from the vine, or clip them using a pruning shear. Enjoy your fresh Brandywine tomatoes in salads, sauces and sandwiches, and save some seeds for next year’s crop!

By following these tips on how to plant Brandywine tomatoes, you can grow healthy, delicious tomatoes that your whole family will love. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a bumper crop of Brandywine tomatoes and harvest them for use in a variety of dishes.