At a Glance

The Mortgage Lifter tomato , alegendary heirloom variety , has captured the hearts of gardener and epicurean likewise for generations . Its massive size , exceeding smack , and historical significance make it a must - have for any tomato partisan . In thiscomprehensive guide , we will cut into into the secrets of how to grow mortgage lifter tomato , empowering you to cultivate these colossal fruit in your own backyard .

Choosing the Right Location

Mortgage Lifter tomatoes flourish in full sun , receiving at least six hour ofdirect sunlightper solar day . Select a well - drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . Amend the grunge with organic topic , such as compost or manure , to enhance its fertility and H2O retention capacity .

Starting from Seed

Sow mortgage lifter tomato seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the lastfrost date . Plant the source 1/4 inch deep in a seed - start mix and keep them warm at 70 - 80 ° fluorine . Provide copious light usinggrow lightsor a cheery windowsill .

Transplanting Outdoors

When the seedlings have get their first pose oftrue leaves , transfer them alfresco . Harden off theseedlings graduallyby scupper them toincreasing amountsof sunshine and wind over a menstruum of 10 - 14 days . Plant the seedlings 2 - 3 feet apart in rows that are 4 - 5 feet apart .

Watering and Fertilizing

Water mortgage booster tomatoes regularly , especially during hot , dry weather . Avoid overwatering , as this can guide toroot buncombe . Fertilize the industrial plant every 2 - 3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer .

Support and Pruning

Mortgage Lifter love apple plants can grow up to 10feet talland produce heavy yield . To prevent them from toppling over , offer supportusing stakes or trellises . crop the plant by removing suckers , which are small shoots that grow between the main radical and arm . This will encourage the plant to focus its vim on producing yield .

Mulching and Disease Prevention

Mulch around the plants with straw or compost to retain wet , suppress weeds , andregulate soil temperature . Keep the plant clean and free of debris to cut back the endangerment of disease . Rotate tomato crops every year to prevent dirt - borne disease .

Harvesting and Storage

Mortgage Lifter tomatoes are ready to glean when they turn adeep red coloring . Gently twist the tomato from the vine , leave thestems attached . Store the tomatoes at way temperature for up to a hebdomad .

The History of the Mortgage Lifter Tomato

The Mortgage Lifter tomato was created by M.C. Byles , aWest Virginia coal miner , in the thirties . Byles sold the seeds of this prodigious tomato to rear fund to pay off his mortgage . Thevariety quickly gained popularity dueto its exceptional size of it and flavor , and it has remained abeloved heirloomever since .

Tips for Success

What People Want to Know

Q : How crowing canMortgage Lifter tomatoesget?A : Mortgage Lifter tomatoescan grow up to 1 British pound or more in weight . Q : How long does it take forMortgage Lifter tomatoesto ripen?A : Mortgage Lifter tomatoes typically ripen75 - 85 day after transplanting . Q : CanMortgage Lifter tomatoesbe grown in containers?A : Yes , Mortgage Lifter tomatoescan be grow in container as long as they are provide withample supportand regular watering . Q : What is the best way to store Mortgage Lifter tomatoes?A : Mortgage Lifter tomatoesshould be stored atroom temperaturefor up to a hebdomad . Q : Why are myMortgage Lifter Lycopersicon esculentum plantsnot producing fruit?A : Possiblereasons let in insufficient sunlight , lack of fertilizer , overwatering , or pest or disease job .