Pruden's Purple

Tomato

Zone 5b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Pruden's Purple

🌱 90d to harvest Indeterminate

Sink your senses into Pruden’s Purple’s velvety, smoky-sweet aroma and the dramatic, wine-dark beauty of its fruit. Beefsteak-siz…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 16th
Last Frost	May 4th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 29th
Harvest Begins	Sep 27th
Harvest Ends	Oct 5th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a common disease for Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and what should I do if it shows up?

A frequent problem is early blight, which causes brown, concentric “target” spots on older leaves and can rapidly defoliate plants. Remove and discard affected leaves, avoid splashing soil onto foliage, and water at the base of the plant. If the disease is spreading, apply a labeled fungicide for tomatoes and reapply according to the product directions (especially after wet weather).

How often should I water during the main growing phase for Solanum lycopersicum to keep fruit from splitting?

During fruit set and the peak of ripening (about mid-season through maturity), keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and soil type, aiming for steady moisture at the root zone; sandy soils may need more frequent watering. Mulch around the plants to reduce swings, because irregular watering is a major cause of cracking and blossom-end issues.

How can I tell when Pruden's Purple tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the fruit is fully colored (purple/near-black shoulders with a ripe red/pink gel inside depending on your strain) and gives slightly to gentle pressure. The best indicator is that the fruit comes off the vine easily with a light twist and looks glossy rather than matte. For peak flavor, pick at a consistent ripe stage—once mostly ripe, let it finish on the vine for only a short time and avoid over-drying on hot days.

Sink your senses into Pruden’s Purple’s velvety, smoky-sweet aroma and the dramatic, wine-dark beauty of its fruit. Beefsteak-sized tomatoes ripen to a dusky purple-brown with subtle green-gold undertones, offering a richly textured bite—juicy, meaty, and deeply flavored for standout heirloom performance. Grow Pruden’s Purple for bold slices and show-stopping sauces, where its complex color and savory depth shine in every pot and platter.

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 types, transplant only when nighttime temps stay safely above ~50°F and the soil is near 60°F+ to avoid cold-stress and delayed set.