Purple Calabash Tomato

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Keep soil warm and consistently moist until germination occurs. Transplant seedlings to individual pots once they develop their first true leaves.

Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days by exposing them to outdoor conditions in increasing increments. Transplant outdoors after the last frost date when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F, spacing plants 24 inches apart in rows 36 inches apart. Bury the stem deeper than it grew in the pot to encourage a stronger root system.

Pick fruits when they display full purple-pink color brushed with bronze; this indicates peak ripeness and flavor development. The fruits average 5 to 6 ounces and should yield slightly to gentle pressure when ripe. Harvest in the morning after dew has dried but before the heat of the day. Because these tomatoes store well, you can pick them at the first blush of color and allow them to finish ripening indoors if frost threatens.

Because this is an indeterminate variety that continues growing throughout the season, selective pruning of lower leaves as the plant matures improves air circulation and reduces disease pressure. Remove suckers (shoots that form between the main stem and branches) to direct energy into fruit production rather than excessive vine growth. Once the plant reaches its trellising support and begins to fill the available space, you can prune the top of the main stem in late summer to halt new growth and allow existing fruit to mature before frost.