As the first trusses appear on the tomato plants, I thought I would write in some more depth about a favourite heirloom tomato, an Amish variety passed down through the years. Brandywine comes in black, red, yellow and pink and first appeared commercially in America in 1882 when offered by a seed company that is still going strong today. It was originally offered as ‘Turner’s Variety’ and was not given the name ‘Brandywine’ until seven years later.

‘Brandywine’ is a little different from other tomatoes – its leaves are more like potato leaves and not as ferny as others. It needs a long season maturity, 70-90 days so there has been some cursing of the cold nights here as that does not help. However it’s ahead of some of the others I am growing, but not first in the league table of trusses because it was not the first to germinate. No tomatoes like cool temperatures and draughts are a definite no-no. ‘Brandywine’ plants can grow to over 2m (8ft) and can get leggy. They can be pinched and pruned, and although you will get fewer tomatoes if you do this, they will be better.
‘Brandywine’ is grown first and foremost for its sweet taste. The taste is a million miles away from a supermarket hybrid. There is nothing bland about this tomato. As ‘Brandywine’ is an open-pollinated strain, the flavour can vary – if the taste is not up to your expectations, then try a different seed company next time. The fruits can be huge, a half kilo or 1lb fruit is not uncommon. Picking them with green shoulders is often best as they do have a tendency to split if left on the vine. Go easy on the nitrogen – you’ll just get lots of foliage. Plant in rich, organic soil that is slightly acidic about 1m (36″ ) apart in an open, sunny position sheltered from winds. Mulch well to conserve moisture. Be consistent with watering – even watering is the key to good tomatoes. Make sure plants are well staked. ‘Brandywine’ tomatoes are indeterminate and can be trained on trellis or caged. I am going to stake mine as I know I am not going to get many fruits this year – we’re having a typical English summer. Planted in a good -sized container,four strong bamboo supports at each corner will withstand the onslaught of heavy fruits.
The ‘Black Brandywine’ often produces smaller fruits. Once picked you can kill the taste in the fridge, so store in a cool, dark place – that’s if you can resist eating them straight off the plant. If you have a glut – make and freeze sauce. Enjoy the fruits of your labour.
If you love tomatoes as much as I do, check out my book 2,000 Tomatoes.























