Heirloom Marriage Cherokee Carbon

Tomato

Zone 12a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Heirloom Marriage Cherokee Carbon

🌱 85d to harvest Indeterminate

Sink your senses into the rich, smoky-sweet aroma of Heirloom Marriage Cherokee Carbon, where each large fruit ripens to a deep, …

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

What pest or disease most often affects Solanum lycopersicum (tomatoes) and what should I do first?

Early blight and Septoria leaf spot are common on tomatoes, especially during warm, humid weather. Remove infected lower leaves, then spray with a labeled protectant fungicide (follow the label) and avoid wetting foliage; water only at the soil line. If plants are heavily affected, remove and discard the worst foliage to slow spread.

How often should I water Solanum lycopersicum during peak growth and fruiting?

During flowering and fruit set (mid-season through harvest), keep soil evenly moist with about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week total, adjusting for heat and container size. Water deeply 1–2 times per week rather than light daily watering, and aim for consistent moisture to reduce blossom-end rot and splitting. Mulch around plants to stabilize moisture and check soil 1 inch (2–3 cm) down before watering.

How can I tell when “Marriage Cherokee Carbon” tomatoes are ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits are fully colored for the variety (dark/ripe shoulder color with a slight softness) and have a strong tomato aroma. The fruit should give slightly when gently squeezed—green shoulders or hard firmness usually mean it needs more days. Expect maturity around ~85 days from transplanting, and pick regularly once ripening starts to keep the plant producing.

Sink your senses into the rich, smoky-sweet aroma of Heirloom Marriage Cherokee Carbon, where each large fruit ripens to a deep, velvety mahogany-red with a subtle, warm brown blush. The flesh is luxuriously firm yet tender, with a balanced, old-fashioned flavor that shines in thick slices and hearty spoonfuls—ideal for bold fresh salads, vibrant sauces, and slow-roasted favorites. A true heirloom for gardeners who want dramatic color, substantial heft, and a memorable taste that feels like heritage in every bite.

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 best dark flavor and disease resistance, transplant into warm soil (60°F+), bury the stem deep, and keep foliage dry with consistent spacing and airflow.