Heirloom tomatoes are one of the true joys of summer. Growing them from seed enables gardeners to plant more unusual varieties that can be hard to find as young plants at local garden centers.

Start tomato seedlings inside in the spring to get a jump on the growing season.

Materials:

Directions:

2. Once seedlings emerge, transfer them to an individual cell or pot.

3. After 6-8 weeks, plant in garden. Pinch off bottom leaves and plant them deep, as new roots will sprout off of stem.

4. Trellis vines to keep tomatoes off of ground. Water regularly until tomatoes start to ripen.

5. Harvest tomatoes when soft to touch. Remember, not all heirlooms turn red.

Varieties of heirloom tomatoes we recommend are:

Black Russian
Persimmon
Green Zebra
Paul Robeson
Aunt Ruby's
Striped German
Ox Heart Paste
Cherokee Purple
Brandywine

Special Thanks:
Johnny's Selected Seeds
www.johnnyseeds.com