German Johnson
tomatoes, which originated in the southern United States, are one of four parent lines that created the hybrid "Mortgage Lifter" tomato. German Johnson tomato plants produce large, meaty fruit with pink flesh and bright red skin with streaks of yellow at the top. The indeterminate vines grow up to five feet in length and mature within 80 days of planting. Indeterminate heirloom tomato plants do best in a garden setting, with full sun, consistent moisture, healthy soil and staking for support. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Start German Johnson tomato seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last chance of frost for your location.
2. Fill peat pots three quarters full with slightly moistened potting soil.
3. Sow two to four seeds in each pot, at a depth of a quarter of an inch, and then cover with a thin layer of potting soil.
4. Place peat pots on a tray and cover with a layer of clear plastic wrap. This helps peat pots retain the proper amount of moisture and warmth needed for successful germination. Once seeds sprout, plastic wrap should be removed.
5. Set tray in a location that receives full sunlight and is at a temperature of at least 75 degrees Fahrenheit during germination. Once sprouting occurs, temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit are adequate for successful growth of seedlings.
6. Allow seedlings to develop two to three sets of true leaves, then gently remove all but the strongest seedling from each pot.
7. Harden off the tomato plants by placing them outdoors for several hours each day, in a partially shady location. This 7- to 10-day process allows the plants to acclimate to the outdoor environment.
8. Prepare final planting site by working organic compost into the soil. This provides the necessary nutrients for healthy tomato plants. If the soil is heavy clay, work in an equal amount of sand to improve drainage.
9. Transplant German Johnson tomatoes into the garden after all chance of frost has passed, and soil temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Dig a shallow trench, place each seedling on its side and bury it up to the first set of leaves. Side planting allows for the formation of additional roots, which absorb additional nutrients and moisture, creating a healthier tomato plant.
11. Apply a two- to three-inch layer of mulch around the base of each plant and water daily during the first week to establish the proper amount of moisture. After the first week, give tomato plants one inch of water once per week throughout the growing season.
12. Insert stakes alongside each plant and away from the root system. As each plant grows, use strips of soft cloth or nylon pantyhose to tie the plant to the stake.
13. Fertilize tomato plants once every two to three weeks, according to manufacturer's directions. Place fertilizer in the soil, away from the stem and foliage, to avoid burns.
Tags: tomato plants, German Johnson, degrees Fahrenheit, each plant, peat pots