Up North, the name of the game for field-grown tomatoes is early, early, early. We’re very selective about what we put out there for tomatoes, and we’ve enjoyed Black Prince in hot summers and rain-soaked, cold ones. First brought to our attention years ago in Maine, where the flavor knocked our socks off and continues to do so. The indeterminate vines are vigorous and loaded with 3-5oz deep garnet/dark brown blushed oblong tomatoes. A fruity richness that lingers on the tongue and satisfies that deep summer craving for warm peaceful days, lemonade, and juicy tomato sandwiches. Originally from Irkutsk, Siberia. These are always so abundant that we often stop picking them. Actually, we stop even looking at them! Indeterminate. 70-75 days. UO
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.
