More Information
| Botanical Name |
Lycopersicon lycopersicum |
| Seeds Per Pack |
25 |
| Life Cycle |
Annual |
| Min. Time to Germinate |
5 Days |
| Max. Time to Germinate |
10 Days |
| Depth to Sow Seeds |
1/4 in. |
| When to Sow |
Indoors 6-8 weeks before last spring frost |
| Growing Height |
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m) |
| Plant Spacing |
24-36 in. (60-90 cm) |
| Hardiness |
N/A |
| Sun Exposure |
Full Sun |
| Danger |
Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested |
| Growth Habit |
Indeterminate |
| Soil pH Requirements |
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic), 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral), 7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline) |
| Days to Harvest |
70-80 |
| Propagation Methods |
From herbaceous stem cuttings, From seed; germinate in a damp paper towel, From seed; sow indoors before last frost |
| Seed Collecting |
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds, Ferment seeds before storing |
| Open Pollinated (OP) |
Yes |
| Usage |
Canning, Fresh, salad, Fresh, slicing |
| Fruit Color |
Pink |
| Fruit Size |
Medium (under one pound) |
The Early Detroit Tomato is a classic, medium-sized, pink-slicing tomato with a rich history and outstanding flavor. Originally bred by Mr. Rosendahl of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and released by the D.M. Ferry Seed Company of Detroit, Michigan, in 1909, this variety was a staple in the Detroit area through the mid-20th century. Thanks to dedicated efforts, this heirloom variety has been brought back to Michigan gardens and beyond.
The fruits are globe-shaped, weighing 2 to 4 ounces, and are a beautifully bright pink. They are firm yet juicy, with a sweet, bold flavor that is not overly acidic. This balance makes the Early Detroit an excellent choice for a variety of culinary uses. Perfect for slicing onto sandwiches or tossing into salads, the tomatoes also hold up well when cooked or canned.
Vigorous plants with good disease and crack resistance produce reliably throughout the season, making this variety as practical as it is flavorful. With its rich heritage and versatility, the Early Detroit Tomato is a must-grow for anyone who appreciates old-time heirlooms with exceptional taste and performance.
