*Ark of Taste Heirloom* So named because they were used as a substitute for dried figs in winters past (18th century), these vines are vigorous and heavy yielding with pear-shaped fruits. We had been on the lookout for a good red pear tomato for our mixed cherry pints and these are among the best. In several of the cooler and wetter growing seasons of the past decade they exhibited the best (almost complete) late blight resistance of any tomato we’ve ever grown. Like all pear type tomatoes, irregular watering habits will cause cracking. Slightly later maturing then Yellow Pear. Indeterminate, 80-85 days. WF
Transplant out after danger offrost (50+F nighttime temps).
Note: Don't start too early or plants will be leggy and root-bound! Tomatoes do well in clay to loam soils.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/8-1/4"
SPACING:
18" spacing in rows 5' apart.
EMERGENCE:
10-14 days @ soil temp 70-85F
LIGHT:
Full sun
FERTILITY:
Medium-Heavy. Prefers well-drained, well-balanced fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Note that excess Nitrogen will encourage foliage, not fruit! Low calcium and irregular watering will result in blossom end rot.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Row cover may be used for extra warmth and possible earlier fruit set.
Irregular watering can result in blossom end rot.
Plant deeply to encourage healthy root structure.
Indeterminate varieties may benefit from pruning suckers to encourage air flow, plant health, and energy towards plant top and fruit.
