Introduction
If you are a gardener who has grown tomatoes, then you might have heard of the Mortgage Lifter tomato plant. This heirloom tomato plant is a favorite among many gardeners due to its large size, meaty fruit, and excellent flavor. However, one important question that many people ask is, "How tall do Mortgage Lifter tomato plants get?" In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and more.
Background
Before we dive into the specifics of the height of the Mortgage Lifter tomato plant, it's important to understand a bit about this tomato's history. The Mortgage Lifter tomato was first bred by a man named Radiator Charlie in the 1930s. Radiator Charlie, whose real name was M.C. Byles, was a radiator repairman who bred the tomato plant as a way to pay off his mortgage. He sold the plants for $1 each and eventually paid off his mortgage. Since then, the Mortgage Lifter tomato plant has become a popular heirloom vegetable among gardeners.
Height of the Mortgage Lifter Tomato Plant
Now, to answer the important question, "How tall do Mortgage Lifter tomato plants get?" The height of this tomato plant can vary depending on growing conditions such as soil, water, and sunlight. Overall, the Mortgage Lifter tomato plant typically grows to be around 5 to 7 feet tall. This can make it a great addition to a garden that has other plants that grow tall, such as corn or sunflowers. However, if you're growing the Mortgage Lifter tomato plant in a container, it may not grow as tall as it would in a garden bed.
How to Grow a Mortgage Lifter Tomato Plant
If you're interested in growing a Mortgage Lifter tomato plant, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, this tomato plant requires full sun and well-drained soil. Make sure that you select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Additionally, the soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. You can add compost or other organic matter to your soil to improve its quality.
When it comes to planting, you can either start your seeds indoors or plant them directly in the ground. If you choose to start your seeds indoors, you should start them about 6 to 8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Transplant your seedlings outdoors once the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed. If you're planting your seeds directly in the ground, you should wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F before planting.
Once your tomato plant is growing, it's important to keep it well-watered and fertilized. You should water your plants deeply once or twice a week, making sure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can fertilize your plants with a balanced tomato fertilizer once a month. Additionally, you should prune your plants to keep them from becoming too bushy, which can lead to disease and poor fruit production.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mortgage Lifter tomato plant is a great addition to any garden due to its large size, meaty fruit, and excellent flavor. While the height of these plants can vary depending on growing conditions, they typically grow to be around 5 to 7 feet tall. If you're interested in growing these tomatoes, make sure to provide them with plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and regular care. With these tips, you'll be on your way to growing your very own Mortgage Lifter tomato plants.