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Wisconsin 901 is a robust Burley-type tobacco with a rich history among home growers seeking bold, full-bodied leaf for pipe blends, cigars, and chewing tobacco. This open-pollinated heirloom reaches 36 to 60 inches tall and matures in 55 to 60 days from transplant, making it feasible for shorter growing seasons. Its thick, slightly oily leaves are prized for their distinctive character, and the plant's natural deer resistance means you won't need to fence it away from browsing wildlife. Whether grown in the garden, containers, or raised beds, Wisconsin 901 rewards growers with substantial harvests of premium-quality leaf.
Full Sun
Moderate
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60in H x ?in W
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High
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The thick, slightly oily leaves of Wisconsin 901 deliver the rich, full-bodied flavor that makes this Burley-type variety so sought after by tobacco enthusiasts. Its compact timeline of 55 to 60 days to maturity keeps the growing season manageable, while its upright habit and moderate spacing requirements (24 inches between plants, 36 inches between rows) make it easy to fit into a home garden or container setup. Deer naturally avoid it, sparing you the frustration of protective measures, and its open-pollinated genetics mean you can save seed year after year.
Wisconsin 901 is grown specifically for tobacco production. Home cultivators use the thick, oily leaves for pipe tobacco blends, hand-rolled cigars, and chewing tobacco, where the robust, full-bodied character shines. The leaves are harvested at maturity and then cured and processed according to the grower's intended end product.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Tobacco seeds are tiny and should be surface-sown or pressed lightly into seed-starting mix without covering them completely, as light aids germination. Keep soil warm (around 70 to 75°F) and moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 7 to 14 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date once they have developed 4 to 6 true leaves and soil has warmed to at least 60°F. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Space plants 24 inches apart with rows 36 inches apart. Plants are ready for harvest approximately 55 to 60 days after transplanting.
Wisconsin 901 is ready to harvest 55 to 60 days after transplanting. Harvest leaves from the bottom of the plant first as they mature and begin to yellow slightly; they should feel slightly papery and have a tan or golden tone. Pick individual leaves by gently snapping or cutting them from the stem, working upward as the plant matures. Continue harvesting over several weeks as upper leaves mature, or cut the entire stem once the majority of leaves have reached the proper color and texture. Harvested leaves should then be cured according to your intended use.
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