Brandywine Black

Tomato

Zone 12a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Brandywine Black

🌱 85d to harvest Indeterminate

Velvety, smoke-kissed flesh with a deep, wine-dark sweetness—Brandywine Black delivers a dramatic bite of flavor that feels both …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 13th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 26th
Harvest Begins	May 22nd
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Indeterminate
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage early blight on Brandywine Black tomatoes?

Early blight (Alternaria) shows up as dark, target-like spots on lower leaves that slowly spread upward, often with yellowing. Remove and discard infected lower leaves early, then improve airflow with proper spacing and staking/pruning to keep foliage dry. If it keeps progressing, spray a labeled tomato fungicide (chlorothalonil or a copper-based option) according to the label and repeat at the interval listed, especially after rain.

How often should I water Brandywine Black during fruiting (after it starts setting)?

During fruiting, keep the soil consistently evenly moist—about 1–2 inches of water per week total, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Water deeply 1–2 times per week instead of frequent light watering, aiming at the soil (not the leaves) to prevent cracking and blossom-end rot. If the top 1 inch of soil dries out, it’s time to water; don’t let it swing between drought and flooding.

When is Brandywine Black ready to harvest at 85 days?

Harvest when fruits are fully colored and slightly soft at the blossom end, with deep smoky red/black tones typical of Brandywine Black. Start checking from about day 85, but don’t rely on the calendar alone—cool weather can delay ripening. If you can smell the tomato aroma and the fruit comes off the vine with a gentle twist, it’s ready; pick promptly at first full color to reduce splitting and bird damage.

Velvety, smoke-kissed flesh with a deep, wine-dark sweetness—Brandywine Black delivers a dramatic bite of flavor that feels both rich and luminous. At maturity, its beefsteak fruits are large and irregularly heart-shaped, with a tender, juicy texture and a slightly smoky, complex profile that shines in fresh slices and bold sauces. Grow this heirloom for the unforgettable, dusky color and the satisfying, garden-to-jar presence it brings to every harvest basket.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

For beefsteak/large-fruited tomatoes like Brandywine, start indoors early and transplant only once nights are consistently warm (not just after the last frost).