Old German Tomato

Old German is a massive bicolor indeterminate heirloom tomato producing jaw-dropping fruits around 2 pounds, often larger than a salad plate. The yellow-and-red flesh has a fuller, more pronounced tomato flavor than many same-colored varieties, with a touch more acid that lends slightly longer shelf life, yet stays very sweet and low in acid compared to traditional reds.

At a glance

• Variety: Old German tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
• Type: Indeterminate bicolor beefsteak, open-pollinated, non-GMO
• Fruit: Yellow and red, around 2 lbs
• Sun: Full sun
• Habit: Vigorous, needs sturdy support
• Use: Slicing, fresh eating, yellow ketchup

Best for

• Big, showpiece slicing tomatoes
• Colorful sandwiches and platters
• Yellow ketchup and specialty sauces
• Low-acid, sweet fresh eating
• Heritage and seed-saving gardens

How to grow

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost and transplant after frost has passed. Provide a strong cage or stake for the heavy fruit and space about 36 inches apart in full sun with rich soil. Water deeply and consistently.

Flavor profile

Sweet and fruity with a fuller tomato depth and gentle acidity that keeps the large bicolor fruit lively.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based family company offering affordable, non-GMO heirloom seeds and gardening supplies, with a mission to make growing your own food simple and accessible.