Buy Cherokee Purple Tomato Plants

The Allure of Cherokee Purple Tomatoes: A Gardener’s Guide to Purchase and Cultivation

The Cherokee Purple tomato stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of heirloom varieties, captivating gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike with its distinctive color, complex flavor, and compelling history. Originating from the Cherokee Nation, this beefsteak-type tomato offers a unique blend of sweet, smoky, and earthy notes, setting it apart from its red counterparts. Its unusual purplish-brown skin, combined with green shoulders and a deep crimson interior, makes it visually striking in any garden or on any plate. For many, cultivating Cherokee Purple tomatoes is not merely about growing food; it is an embrace of a living legacy, a connection to agricultural heritage, and a pursuit of unparalleled taste.

Choosing to grow Cherokee Purple tomatoes signifies a desire for superior flavor and a departure from the often bland, mass-produced supermarket varieties. These indeterminate plants are known for their vigorous growth and prolific yields under optimal conditions, providing a bountiful harvest that can be enjoyed fresh, preserved, or shared. However, like all heirloom varieties, they often require a bit more attention than modern hybrids, presenting a rewarding challenge for dedicated gardeners. This comprehensive guide aims to equip prospective growers with all the necessary information, from the initial decision to purchase plants to the joy of harvesting their first ripe, dusky-hued fruit, ensuring a successful and satisfying gardening experience.

Why Choose Cherokee Purple for Your Garden?

The decision to plant Cherokee Purple tomatoes is often driven by a combination of factors, primarily their legendary flavor and rich historical background. Unlike many commercially available tomatoes bred for uniform appearance, disease resistance, and shelf life, Cherokee Purple prioritizes taste above all. Its flavor profile is often described as a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, with a noticeable smoky undertone that adds depth and complexity, making it a favorite for slicing, sandwiches, and fresh culinary applications. This exquisite taste alone is a compelling reason for many home gardeners to dedicate valuable garden space to this particular cultivar.

Beyond flavor, the Cherokee Purple offers a unique aesthetic appeal. The mottled, dusky rose-purple skin with pronounced green shoulders provides a visual interest rarely found in other tomato varieties. This striking appearance makes them a focal point in salads, platters, and even as standalone decorative elements. Furthermore, growing an heirloom variety like the Cherokee Purple connects gardeners to a historical lineage, preserving genetic diversity and supporting the continued existence of unique agricultural treasures. This sense of stewardship, coupled with the unparalleled taste experience, solidifies its position as a highly desirable choice for discerning gardeners looking for something truly special and rewarding to cultivate in their home gardens.

Understanding Cherokee Purple Plant Needs Before You Buy

Before purchasing Cherokee Purple tomato plants, it is crucial to understand their specific environmental and care requirements to ensure a successful growing season. Like most tomatoes, Cherokee Purples thrive in conditions that mimic their native warm, sunny environments. Proper preparation and knowledge of these needs will set the stage for healthy plant development and a bountiful harvest.

Sunlight Requirements

Cherokee Purple tomato plants demand a significant amount of sunlight. They perform best when exposed to a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Anything less can lead to leggy plants, reduced fruit production, and overall weaker growth. When selecting a planting location, observe the sun patterns throughout the day to ensure your chosen spot receives ample, unobstructed sun exposure from morning to late afternoon. Southern-facing gardens or raised beds often provide ideal conditions.

Soil Preferences

These tomatoes prefer rich, well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8. Heavy clay soils that retain too much water can lead to root rot, while sandy soils may drain too quickly, requiring more frequent watering and nutrient replenishment. Amending your soil with a generous amount of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, is highly beneficial. Organic matter improves soil structure, enhances drainage, and provides essential nutrients, creating an ideal environment for robust root development and healthy plant growth. A soil test can help determine your existing soil’s composition and pH, guiding you on necessary amendments.

Watering Regimen

Consistent watering is paramount for Cherokee Purple tomatoes, especially during flowering and fruiting. Irregular watering can lead to problems such as blossom end rot and fruit cracking. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Deep watering two to three times a week, rather than shallow daily watering, encourages roots to grow deeper, making the plant more resilient to dry spells. During hot, dry periods, daily watering might be necessary. It is best to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases.

Support Systems

As indeterminate varieties, Cherokee Purple plants will continue to grow, flower, and produce fruit until frost. They can reach heights of 6 feet or more and become heavily laden with fruit, necessitating robust support. Without adequate support, the plants can sprawl, making them susceptible to pests, diseases, and damage from wind or heavy fruit load. Options include sturdy cages (especially large, heavy-duty cages), trellises, or staking with strong stakes. Installing support systems at the time of planting is ideal, as adding them later can disturb the root system.

Spacing Requirements

Proper spacing is crucial for air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases, and for allowing plants sufficient room to grow and produce. For Cherokee Purple tomatoes, allow at least 2 to 3 feet between plants. If you are planting in rows, ensure rows are spaced 3 to 4 feet apart. This spacing ensures each plant receives adequate sunlight and allows for easier access for watering, pruning, and harvesting. Overcrowding can lead to increased competition for nutrients and light, ultimately reducing yields.

When and Where to Buy Cherokee Purple Tomato Plants

The timing and source of your Cherokee Purple tomato plants can significantly impact their initial health and subsequent performance in your garden. Strategic purchasing ensures you get robust, healthy starts ready to thrive.

Optimal Timing for Purchase

The best time to purchase Cherokee Purple tomato plants is typically in late spring, after all danger of frost has passed in your region and nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50°F (10°C). Planting too early exposes young plants to cold stress, which can stunt growth or even kill them. Conversely, buying plants too late in the season might mean missing out on the best selections, as popular varieties tend to sell out quickly. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and consider your region’s last average frost date. Many gardeners aim to plant 2-4 weeks after this date to be safe.

Local Nurseries and Garden Centers

Purchasing from a local nursery or garden center offers several advantages. You can physically inspect the plants for health and vigor, ensuring you take home only the strongest specimens. Local nurseries often stock varieties that are well-suited to the regional climate and may even grow their plants from seed, ensuring they are acclimatized to local conditions. Furthermore, staff at these establishments can provide expert advice tailored to your specific growing environment. The primary drawback might be limited availability, especially for heirloom varieties like Cherokee Purple, as not all nurseries choose to grow them.

Online Retailers and Specialty Growers

Online retailers and specialty heirloom seed/plant growers offer a much wider selection, often guaranteeing the authenticity of the Cherokee Purple variety. This option is particularly beneficial if local sources are limited. When ordering online, look for reputable nurseries with strong reviews and clear shipping policies. Plants are typically shipped at the appropriate planting time for your zone, often bare-root or in small pots. While convenient, you cannot inspect plants before purchase, and they may experience some shipping stress upon arrival. Always choose vendors who specialize in vegetable starts or heirloom tomatoes.

Seed Exchanges and Garden Clubs

For adventurous gardeners, seed exchanges and local garden clubs can be excellent sources for Cherokee Purple seeds or even young plants. This method often comes with the added benefit of connecting with experienced local gardeners who can offer firsthand advice and share their growing successes and challenges with the variety. While potentially more economical and community-focused, availability can be inconsistent, and the quality of seeds or starts might vary more than from commercial sources. Always ensure seeds or plants from these sources are free from pests and diseases before introducing them to your garden.

What to Look For When Buying Cherokee Purple Plants

Selecting healthy and vigorous Cherokee Purple tomato plants is a critical first step towards a successful harvest. A thorough inspection at the point of purchase can save you from potential headaches and disappointments down the line. Focus on several key indicators of plant health.

Healthy Foliage

The leaves should be a rich, vibrant green, free from any yellowing, browning, spots, or discoloration. Look for foliage that is uniform in color and texture. Any signs of wilting, curling, or holes could indicate pest infestation, disease, or environmental stress. Avoid plants with pale or stunted leaves, as these may be nutrient deficient or struggling.

Sturdy Stem

A strong, thick stem is a sign of a well-rooted and robust plant. The stem should appear upright and firm, not spindly, leggy, or bent. Leggy plants, often caused by insufficient light, have long, thin stems with sparse leaves and tend to be weaker and more prone to snapping. A sturdy stem indicates the plant has received adequate light and nutrients during its initial growth phase.

Absence of Pests and Diseases

Carefully inspect both the top and underside of the leaves, as well as the stem, for any signs of pests such as aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Look for tiny insects, sticky residue (honeydew), or webbing. Also, check for any suspicious spots, lesions, or fungal growth, which could indicate a disease. It’s best to avoid any plant showing these signs, as they can quickly spread to other plants in your garden.

Root System (if visible)

If possible, gently lift the plant from its container to examine the roots. A healthy root system should be white or light tan, filling the pot without being excessively root-bound. You should see fine, fibrous roots throughout the soil ball. Avoid plants with roots that are circling excessively at the bottom of the pot (severely root-bound), dark or mushy roots (a sign of overwatering or rot), or very few roots (indicating a weak start). A few roots poking out the drainage holes are usually fine, but a solid mass of roots could mean the plant is stressed.

Appropriate Plant Size and Maturity

While larger plants might seem appealing, excessively large, flowering, or fruiting plants in small pots can be stressed. These plants may have expended too much energy on premature flowering or fruit development, leaving fewer resources for establishing themselves in your garden. Ideal plants are typically 6 to 12 inches tall, with 4-6 sets of true leaves, and possibly a few small flower buds, but not open flowers or fruit. This size allows them to adapt better to their new environment and focus energy on root development once planted.

Preparing for Your New Cherokee Purple Plants

Once you’ve acquired healthy Cherokee Purple tomato plants, proper preparation of your garden site is paramount to their successful transition and subsequent growth. This preparatory phase ensures the plants have the best possible start.

Hardening Off

If your plants have been grown in a protected environment (like a greenhouse or indoors), they need to be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before permanent planting. This process, known as “hardening off,” typically takes 7-10 days. Begin by placing the plants outdoors in a shaded, sheltered location for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and wind. Bring them indoors at night, especially if temperatures are expected to drop. This slow introduction helps prevent transplant shock and makes the plants more resilient to environmental stresses once permanently planted.

Site Selection and Preparation

Reconfirm your chosen planting site receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure it is away from large trees or shrubs that might compete for water and nutrients. Clear the area of weeds and debris, which can harbor pests or diseases and compete with your tomato plants. Good air circulation is important, so avoid planting in overly dense areas.

Soil Preparation

As Cherokee Purples are heavy feeders, enriching the soil is a crucial step. Begin by loosening the soil to a depth of at least 12-18 inches. Incorporate a generous amount of organic matter, such as well-aged compost, leaf mold, or aged manure, into the top 6-8 inches of soil. This improves soil structure, drainage, and fertility. If a soil test indicated any nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances, now is the time to apply appropriate amendments like lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it, or specific organic fertilizers to boost nutrient levels. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 for optimal nutrient uptake.

Tools Needed

Gather all necessary tools before you begin planting. This typically includes a sturdy shovel or trowel for digging, gardening gloves, a watering can or hose, stakes or cages for support, and potentially a soil test kit if you haven’t recently tested your soil. Having everything on hand streamlines the planting process and reduces interruptions.

Planting Your Cherokee Purple Tomatoes

The act of planting your Cherokee Purple tomatoes is more than just putting them in the ground; it’s about giving them the best possible start for vigorous growth and abundant fruit production. Careful execution of these steps will ensure a strong foundation.

Digging the Planting Hole

For each plant, dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the plant up to its first set of true leaves, and wide enough to comfortably spread out the root ball. For a plant that is 6-12 inches tall, this might mean a hole approximately 8-12 inches deep and 8-12 inches wide. If you’ve added compost or other amendments, mix them thoroughly into the soil in and around the planting hole.

Deep Planting Technique

Cherokee Purple, like most tomatoes, benefits immensely from deep planting. Tomatoes have the remarkable ability to grow new roots along their buried stems. Carefully remove any lower leaves from the plant’s stem, leaving only the top one or two sets of leaves. Gently remove the plant from its container, trying not to disturb the root ball too much. Place the plant into the prepared hole so that the soil level reaches just below the remaining lowest leaves. This deep planting encourages a more extensive and robust root system, which helps the plant absorb more water and nutrients and provides greater stability as it grows tall and heavy with fruit.

Backfilling and Initial Watering

Once the plant is positioned, gently backfill the hole with the amended soil, lightly firming it around the base of the stem to remove any large air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too heavily, as this can impede root development and water penetration. After backfilling, immediately give the newly planted tomato a thorough watering. This settles the soil around the roots, reduces air pockets, and provides essential moisture for the plant to begin establishing itself. Water until the soil is thoroughly saturated around the root zone.

Installing Initial Support

Since Cherokee Purple tomatoes are indeterminate and grow quite large, installing their support system at planting time is highly recommended. This prevents disturbing the roots later on. Drive sturdy stakes (at least 6-8 feet tall) into the ground about 4-6 inches away from the plant stem, or place your large tomato cage around the plant. As the plant grows, you will tie the main stem to the stake or guide it through the cage openings, providing continuous support and preventing the heavy fruit from weighing down and breaking the branches.

Post-Planting Care and Maintenance

Once your Cherokee Purple tomato plants are in the ground, consistent care and attentive maintenance are crucial for promoting healthy growth, warding off pests and diseases, and ensuring a bountiful harvest. These ongoing tasks will directly influence the success of your tomato patch.

Consistent Watering Schedule

Continue the practice of deep, consistent watering. Aim to provide 1-2 inches of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation. The key is consistency; avoid letting the soil completely dry out between waterings, followed by sudden heavy watering, as this can lead to blossom end rot or fruit cracking. Water deeply at the plant’s base in the morning to allow foliage to dry before evening, which helps prevent fungal issues. Mulching around the base of the plants with a 2-4 inch layer of straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilization Regimen

Cherokee Purple tomatoes are heavy feeders. About 2-3 weeks after planting, and then every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season, apply a balanced organic fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for tomatoes. Look for a fertilizer with a slightly higher potassium (K) content, as potassium is vital for fruit development. Avoid excessive nitrogen (N), which can promote lush foliage growth at the expense of fruit production. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates to prevent over-fertilization, which can burn plants.

Pruning and Suckering

As indeterminate plants, Cherokee Purples benefit from some judicious pruning, particularly “suckering.” Suckers are the small shoots that emerge from the axils (the V-shaped area where a leaf stem meets the main stem). Removing some of these suckers directs the plant’s energy into fruit production on the main stem and existing branches, improves air circulation, and can lead to larger, earlier fruits. However, don’t remove too many, as leaves are essential for photosynthesis. A common practice is to remove suckers below the first fruit cluster and pinch off suckers that are small, allowing some to grow for a balance of yield and vigor. Prune any yellowing, diseased, or dead leaves to maintain plant health.

Pest and Disease Management

Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pests (e.g., aphids, hornworms, spider mites) or diseases (e.g., blight, fusarium wilt). Early detection is key to effective management. Hand-picking larger pests like hornworms, using insecticidal soap for aphids, or introducing beneficial insects can help control infestations. For diseases, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and consider organic fungicides if necessary. Crop rotation in subsequent years is also vital to prevent disease buildup in the soil. Healthy plants are more resistant to problems, so proper watering, feeding, and sunlight are the best defense.

Ongoing Support and Tying

As your Cherokee Purple plants grow taller and heavier, continue to guide them up their stakes or through their cages. Use soft ties (such as fabric strips or specialized garden ties) to secure the main stem and branches to the support system. Avoid using tight wire or string that could cut into the stem as it grows. Ensure ties are loose enough to allow for stem expansion. Regular attention to support will prevent branches from breaking under the weight of ripening fruit and keep the plants upright and manageable.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Cherokee Purple Tomatoes

The culmination of your gardening efforts is the joyous moment of harvesting your ripe Cherokee Purple tomatoes. Knowing when and how to pick them, along with proper storage, will maximize their exquisite flavor and versatility.

Ripeness Indicators

Determining the perfect ripeness for Cherokee Purple tomatoes requires a bit of keen observation. Unlike many red tomatoes that turn a uniform bright red, Cherokee Purples display a more subtle color change. They will typically develop a deep, dusky rose-purple hue, often with distinctive green shoulders that may persist even when fully ripe. The most reliable indicator, however, is touch: a ripe Cherokee Purple tomato will feel slightly soft to the gentle squeeze, yielding a little under pressure. It should also have a rich, aromatic tomato scent at the stem end. Don’t wait for them to turn uniformly dark, as their signature green shoulders are part of their genetic makeup and often remain.

Harvesting Technique

To harvest, gently cup the tomato in one hand and twist it at the stem. Alternatively, use clean, sharp pruning shears or clippers to snip the stem just above the calyx (the leafy green part where the stem attaches to the fruit). It’s best to leave a small piece of the stem attached to the tomato, as this can help it store longer and reduces the risk of pathogens entering the fruit. Avoid pulling the tomatoes forcefully, which can damage the plant or cause the fruit to split. Harvest regularly as fruits ripen to encourage the plant to produce more.

Storage Tips

For the best flavor and texture, Cherokee Purple tomatoes should ideally be stored at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Never refrigerate ripe tomatoes, as cold temperatures can degrade their flavor and make them mealy. If you have an abundance, they will keep for several days on a countertop. If they are slightly under-ripe, placing them in a paper bag with a banana or apple for a day or two can help speed up ripening due to the ethylene gas produced by the other fruits. For long-term preservation, Cherokee Purple tomatoes can be canned, frozen (often pureed or diced), or dried.

Culinary Uses and Enjoyment

The complex, rich flavor of Cherokee Purple tomatoes makes them incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Their robust, smoky-sweet taste is best showcased in fresh applications. They are superb sliced on sandwiches, layered in salads, or simply enjoyed with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Their meaty texture and low seed count also make them excellent for fresh salsas, bruschetta, or gazpacho. They can be gently roasted to intensify their sweetness or used in fresh sauces, though many purists argue their true glory lies in uncooked preparations. Share your harvest with friends and family, and savor the unique flavor of this exceptional heirloom tomato, a true highlight of the summer garden.