Does Bonnie Plants Have Heirloom Tomatoes?

Heirloom tomatoes are the old-fashioned types that have been around for generations, passed down from one gardener to the next. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and are prized by home gardeners and chefs for their rich flavor and unique characteristics. But do Bonnie Plants, one of the largest producers of vegetable and herb plants in the United States, have heirloom tomatoes in their product line? Let's find out.

What are Heirloom Tomatoes?

Before we discuss whether or not Bonnie Plants sells heirloom tomatoes, let's first define what they are. Heirloom tomatoes are varieties that have been grown for generations and passed down through families. They are open-pollinated, meaning that they are pollinated naturally by insects or wind, and are not genetically modified or hybridized. Heirloom tomatoes often have unique characteristics, such as a wide range of colors, flavors, and shapes, that have been lost in modern varieties bred for disease resistance and uniformity of appearance.

Bonnie Plants' Product Line

Bonnie Plants was founded in 1918 and has since grown to become one of the largest producers of vegetable and herb plants in the United States. They sell a wide variety of vegetable and herb plants, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and more. However, when it comes to heirloom tomatoes specifically, Bonnie Plants does not have a large selection. In fact, as of the time of writing, they only offer two heirloom tomato varieties: Brandywine and Cherokee Purple.

The Brandywine Tomato

Brandywine tomato is a large, pink beefsteak tomato that is known for its intense, sweet flavor. It is one of the most popular heirloom tomato varieties and has been grown for over 100 years. Brandywine tomatoes can grow up to 1 pound in weight and have a thin skin that is prone to cracking. They are best grown in warm climates and require support to keep their heavy fruits from falling off the vine.

The Cherokee Purple Tomato

Cherokee Purple tomato is another popular heirloom tomato variety. It is a medium-sized tomato with a deep, dusky color that is almost purple, hence its name. Cherokee Purple tomatoes have a sweet, rich flavor and are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or eating fresh off the vine. They are known for their meaty texture and low acidity, making them a favorite among home gardeners and chefs alike.

The Future of Heirloom Tomatoes at Bonnie Plants

While Bonnie Plants only offers two heirloom tomato varieties at the moment, it is possible that they may expand their product line in the future. Heirloom tomatoes have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people seek out unique and flavorful varieties. Home gardeners and chefs are drawn to heirloom tomatoes because of their diversity of flavor and appearance, as well as their connection to the past. As such, it would not be surprising if Bonnie Plants were to offer more heirloom tomato varieties in the future.

In Conclusion

So does Bonnie Plants have heirloom tomatoes? The answer is yes, but only two varieties at present: Brandywine and Cherokee Purple. While this selection may be limited, it is a good start for those looking to grow or try heirloom tomatoes for the first time. As the demand for heirloom tomatoes continues to grow, it is possible that Bonnie Plants will expand its selection, providing even more opportunities for home gardeners and chefs to enjoy these unique and flavorful varieties.