Black Krim Pole Tomato is an indeterminate vining tomato that delivers deep, complex flavor in a striking dark fruit. This heirloom variety climbs steadily, reaching maturity in 70 to 90 days, and produces abundantly throughout the season when given sturdy support. With its preference for full sun and moderate watering, it thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8, making it a rewarding choice for gardeners who have the space and patience to train it vertically.
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The deep mahogany-to-black coloring of Black Krim fruits signals their rich, concentrated flavor that intensifies as the season progresses. Because it's indeterminate, this variety keeps producing new fruit clusters right up until frost, rewarding your investment in sturdy trellising with an extended harvest. Unlike determinate cousins that exhaust themselves in one flush, Black Krim sustains productivity across months, especially when soil stays consistently moist and nutrients remain balanced.
Black Krim Pole Tomato shines sliced fresh, where its deep color and rich flavor make it a striking centerpiece on the plate. The concentrated taste holds up well in cooked sauces, soups, and slow-roasted preparations where you want tomato flavor to anchor a dish. Fresh eating and sauce-making are its strength.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your planned transplant date. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix and maintain soil temperature between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit for reliable germination. Germination will occur more slowly at 60 degrees, so consistent warmth accelerates sprouting. Keep seedlings under grow lights and maintain consistent moisture until they're ready to transplant.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after your average last frost date, once air temperature consistently reaches 45 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer. Soil temperature should be at least 60 degrees at planting time. Space plants 36 inches apart in rows that are also 36 inches apart. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before permanent planting to prevent transplant shock.
For mild climates only, direct sow seeds 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date when soil temperature reaches at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This method is not recommended for cooler regions.
Harvest Black Krim Pole Tomato when fruits reach full dark color and yield slightly to gentle pressure. The dark mahogany or near-black coloring is your signal that the fruit has developed its full flavor complexity. Pick fruits as they ripen throughout the season; consistent harvesting encourages continued production on indeterminate vines. Twist and lift gently, or use pruners to avoid damaging the vine.
As an indeterminate vine, Black Krim Pole Tomato benefits from selective sucker removal once plants are established. Pinch off the small shoots that emerge between the main stem and leaf branches to direct energy into the primary vines and fruit clusters. This improves air circulation, reduces disease pressure, and helps the plant focus on fruit production rather than excessive leafy growth. However, avoid over-pruning, which stresses the plant and reduces total yield.
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