Brandywine Red – an American beefsteak tomato with a classic flavour
What is Brandywine Red?
Brandywine Red is a traditional beefsteak tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) with large, deep red fruit, a silky texture and mild acidity. A popular variety if you want to grow tomatoes from seed and get really flavourful, meaty fruit.
Background and name
This is the original Brandywine tomato, first grown in Pennsylvania in the late 1800s. It has given rise to several colour variants but is still a favourite among purists.
Appearance and growth habit
Brandywine Red is a tall-growing (indeterminate) variety that needs tying in and side-shooting. The fruits are large and slightly flattened-round, often 300–500 grams.
Flavour and uses
The flavour is balanced, with light sweetness and low acidity – excellent for slicing, tomato sandwiches and fresh salads. The texture is smooth and the flesh plentiful.
Ripening time, resilience and storage
Ripens after about 75 days. Grows best in a greenhouse or a very warm spot outdoors. The fruits have a short shelf life after harvest and should be eaten straight away.
Pollination tips
Shake the flower trusses lightly to encourage pollination when growing in a greenhouse.
How to grow Brandywine Red
Sow indoors in March–April. Pot on into larger pots. Plant out after the last frost. Pinch out side shoots and give support. Ripens after about 75 days.
Price is for 10 tomato seeds
Sow in seed compost and keep it lightly moist until the seeds germinate. Pot on into larger pots of nutrient-rich compost once the seedlings have their first true leaves. Harden off before planting out. Does best in a greenhouse or a warm spot outdoors. Give support, pinch out side shoots regularly and water evenly for the best results.
