The Lincoln tomato is a variety of heirloom tomato that is prized for its sweet flavor and firm flesh. The fruits are large, typically weighing in at around two pounds each. They are deep red in color and have smooth, glossy skin.
Lincoln tomatoes are indeterminate varieties, meaning that they will continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season.
Because of their size and general shape, Lincoln tomatoes are often used in canning and preserving. They can also be eaten fresh, either sliced or diced, in salads or on sandwiches.
What You Need to Know About Lincoln Tomatoes
The Lincoln Tomato is a large, heirloom variety that was first introduced in 1883.
While the fruit is not poisonous, some parts of it are if ingested. The fruit is usually about twelve ounces, and it has a deep red color with a bluish tinge. The flavor is sweet and juicy, making it a popular choice for canning and eating fresh.
The plant is indeterminate, meaning it will continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season. Lincoln Tomatoes are easy to grow and care for, and they will thrive in most climates.
The plants are resistant to many common diseases, and they do not require a lot of pruning or staking. However, they do require consistent moisture levels and should be watered deeply at least once a week. When choosing a location to grow your Lincoln Tomatoes, make sure to choose an area with plenty of sun and well-drained soil.
Lincoln Tomatoes typically flower in mid-summer, and the fruit will be ready for harvest about two months later. The flowers only last for a few days, but the fruit of the plant can be harvested for several weeks.
With proper care, a single plant can produce dozens of delicious tomatoes.
How to Care for Lincoln Tomatoes
Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for a thriving Lincoln Tomatoes:
Light
Like all tomatoes, Lincolns need full sun to produce bountiful crops of plump, juicy fruits. They are also quite tolerant of shade, so if your garden is in a shady spot, this is the perfect variety for you.
When grown as houseplants, Lincolns should be placed in a sunny window where they will receive 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Tomatoes should also be rotated to ensure that they receive even amounts of sunlight and to prevent disease.
Water and Soil Needs
Water and soil are the two most important factors to consider when growing Lincoln tomatoes. The plants require at least an inch of water per week and prefer loamy, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8.
If possible, amend the soil with organic matter before planting to help improve drainage and provide nutrients. Once the tomatoes are in the ground, mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Requirements
The Lincoln tomato is a versatile plant that can thrive in a variety of climates. It is well suited to growing in USDA climate zones 11 and 12, where temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can also tolerate cooler temperatures, making it a good choice for gardeners in zones 8 and below.
Fertilizer
Most plants need some type of fertilizer to grow well. Lincoln tomatoes are no different. The best fertilizer to use for these tomatoes is a 10-10-10 fertilizer. This analysis provides the correct amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that the plant needs to produce healthy fruit.
Apply the fertilizer when you first see the tomato plants sprouting in the spring. Then, apply it again when the plants start to bloom and set fruit. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can burn the plant leaves and stunt growth.
Common Diseases
Luckily, Lincoln Tomatoes have excellent resistance to many common diseases, including early blight, foliage disease, and Alternaria stem canker. However, they can still be susceptible to other problems, such as blossom end rot and tomato hornworms.
Prevent these issues by water regularly and fertilizing as needed. Inspect the plants regularly for pests, and remove any affected leaves or fruit promptly.
Lincoln Tomatoes Propagation
To start your own Lincoln tomato plants, you’ll need to purchase some seedlings from a local nursery or online retailer. Growing from seeds is one of the most ideal ways to start your plants, but it can be a bit more challenging.
Once you have your seedlings, you’ll need to prepare a spot in your garden or potting containers filled with rich, loose soil.
Plant the seedlings about two feet apart, and water them regularly so that the soil stays moist but not soggy. When the plants are about a foot tall, you can pinch off the tops to encourage branching.
This will help create a bushier plant with more fruit. With proper care, your Lincoln tomatoes should be ready to harvest in about 75 days. Enjoy your bounty fresh from the vine or use them in your favorite recipes!