PHIL'S REISETOMATE

Solanum lycopersicum

Many years ago we grew the wacky Reisetomate, a famously fasciated German heirloom tomato. While the novelty of a tomato that may be broken into individual pieces sans implement is indeed charming, the flavor was disappointing. Since then, some industrious soul has sought to improve the Reisetomate, and has succeeded!

In our garden these plants exhibited fasciation very early in their growth and topped out at only 18" or so. Begins blooming with reckless abandon relatively early in the season. Fruits are a beautiful sunny yellow and very heavily fasciated. Dense flesh has very few seeds. Left to ripen completely fruits tend to fall apart at the lightest touch. The flavor of these fascinating fruits was genuinely good, although it is possible that the heat and drought in the summer of 2022 contributed significantly to this. At first blush I was reminded of our once beloved Yellow Ruffled, another rare selection that was among our most delicious in Iowa, but which is typically insipid in the Northeast. In fact, it seems entirely likely to me that Yellow Ruffled is at least one progenitor of this wonderful selection.

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Tuck seeds just beneath the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug, and mist generously with warm water. Cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm in bright light seeds should germinate within a week or so. Once seedlings have true leaves, prick them out and transplant them into individual cells or pots to grow on in bright light at room temperature. Harden off carefully before transplanting into warm soil in full sun after all danger of frost has passed. Water just until well-rooted.

Phil's Reisetomate is compact enough to be grown successfully in containers. Do allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as the flavor of this tomato will undoubtedly benefit from some suffering.

Grown by Farmacie Isolde.

Packet contains at least 10 seeds.