The Heinz Company came out with several strains of this tomato over the years and we think we have the best of them. In late August there are dozens of fruit, all around 3 inches across, all crack free, all bright red. The Heinz Classic Processor Tomato is a great tomato for a variety of home uses – one thing to keep in mind is you will get lots and lots of perfect fruit, all at pretty much the same time. The acid content is perfect for canning, the flavor is fine for salads, resistance to fusarium and verticillium wilts is built in. The Heinz Classic Processor Tomato is sort of a canning heirloom and we like it a lot.

20 seeds

PLANTING

Solanum lycopersicum

Determinate

Germination:7-14 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 70-85F.

Seed Sowing Depth:1/4 deep

StartingIndoors:6 weeks before last frost. Provide 75-80F soil temperatures. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot,thin to the strongest seedling or use the 20 Row seedling flat, transplanting into individual pots whenseedlings get their 3rd set of leaves.Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water soluble fertilizer, diluted to of suggested measurement. Transplant out after last frost. Space 24-36″ apart

Sowing Outdoors:Only in areas with very long growing seasons. Sow after last frost.

Harvest:When fruit is red (or color of the variety planted) and firm.

Tips: The Heinz Classic Processor Tomato should be planted in fertile soil, amended with compost, mulch and provide even moisture. Plant deeper than they were growing in the containers as it makes a stronger roots system. Apply a light compost tea every few weeks. Do not apply excessive nitrogen, which can promote excessive foliage and poor fruit set.