Carbon Tomato – MIg

Description

Carbon Tomato is a dark “black” heirloom beefsteak variety with deep purple to dark-red skin and a brick-red, meaty interior. Its rich, balanced flavor offers sweet, smokey, and complex notes—ideal for slicing. Fruits weigh between 280–425 g (10–14 oz). The plant is indeterminate, vigorous, and noticeably productive while resisting cracking better than many other black heirlooms.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Start Indoors: Begin seeds early to mid‑August, warming the soil to at least 24 °C to ensure strong germination.

• Transplant Outdoors: Move seedlings outdoors in early October, once nighttime temperatures remain consistently above 15 °C.

• Direct Sowing: You may also sow seeds directly outdoors in early October, provided the soil is warm, well-prepared, and frost risk has passed.

This timing aligns well with the UAE’s cooler season, supporting robust growth and extended harvesting.

Growing Timeline

• Harvest Ready: Expect to harvest 80 days after transplanting.

Planting & Care Tips

• Sunlight & Soil: Select a full-sun site (6–8 hrs/day) with fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.

• Planting & Support: Bury seedlings deeply to first true leaves to encourage robust roots. Use sturdy cages or stakes as vines can become tall and heavy.

• Spacing: Space plants 45–60 cm apart, with 90 cm between rows to ensure good airflow and reduce disease risk.

• Watering: Maintain even soil moisture—use mulch to preserve water and help prevent fruit cracking.

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting. Once flowering begins, favor phosphorus and potassium while limiting nitrogen to promote fruit development.

• Harvesting: Pick fruits when fully colored and slightly soft to touch—regular harvesting encourages continued productivity.