Celebrity tomatoes are a popular variety of determinate tomato, known for their uniform size, high yield, and disease-resistant properties. Developed by Dr. James Baggett of Oregon State University, Celebrity tomatoes have become a staple in home gardens and commercial farms alike.
One of the standout features of Celebrity tomatoes is their consistent size and shape. They typically grow to be around 7-8 ounces and have a round, smooth shape. This makes them a great choice for slicing and using in sandwiches and salads.
Another benefit of Celebrity tomatoes is their high yield. Because they are a determinate variety, they produce fruit all at once, which makes them a popular choice for canning and preserving. They also have a relatively short growing season, which means that they can be harvested earlier in the year than other varieties.
Celebrity tomatoes are also known for their disease-resistant properties. They are resistant to verticillium and fusarium wilt, two common tomato diseases that can cause significant damage to plants. This makes them a good choice for gardeners who want to avoid using chemical pesticides and fungicides.
In terms of flavor, Celebrity tomatoes have a mild, sweet taste that is not too acidic. They are a good all-purpose tomato, suitable for use in a wide range of dishes.
When it comes to growing Celebrity tomatoes, they prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be started from seed indoors or planted directly into the ground after the last frost. It is important to provide them with support, such as stakes or cages, as they grow to prevent them from toppling over and to keep the fruit off the ground.
One thing to keep in mind when growing Celebrity tomatoes is that, because they are a determinate variety, they produce all of their fruit at once. This means that if you are planting a large crop, you may want to stagger your planting so that you have a steady supply of tomatoes throughout the growing season.
When harvesting Celebrity tomatoes, it is important to wait until they are fully ripe before picking them. Look for tomatoes that are uniformly red and firm to the touch. If the tomatoes are still slightly green, you can leave them on the vine for a few more days to ripen fully.
Overall, Celebrity tomatoes are a great choice for gardeners who want a high-yielding, disease-resistant tomato that is versatile and easy to grow. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this variety is definitely worth considering for your garden.
