Organic 'Brandywine Red' Tomato
Organic 'Brandywine Red' tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) from McKenzie Seeds, an heirloom tomato with a rich and deeply authentic flavor
The 'Brandywine Red' tomato is one of the world's most renowned heirloom varieties , prized for generations for its intense, complex, and perfectly balanced flavor . Its large, fleshy, juicy red fruits offer a melting texture and a classic, uncompromising, old-fashioned tomato taste—an absolute benchmark for lovers of characterful tomatoes.
This variety produces generous, often irregularly shaped fruits with dense, fragrant flesh. It excels when eaten fresh, especially in thick slices, where its aromatic richness is fully expressed. Highly prized by gardeners and market gardeners, the 'Brandywine Red' is recognized as a gourmet tomato par excellence.
With its indeterminate growth habit, this plant continues to grow and produce throughout the season. It requires sturdy staking to support its vigorous stems and heavy fruit. It attracts bees and other pollinators , contributing to the vitality of the vegetable garden.
Companion plants: Basil, Calendula, Dill, Garlic, Nasturtium, Onion, Parsley, Thyme, Asparagus
Enemy plants: Brassicaceae (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, etc.)
Spread/Habit: Vigorous plant, indeterminate growth habit
Plant height: 150 to 200 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Heirloom
Physical type of seed: Seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 30 to 35 seeds
Special features: Old variety, very tasty fruit, ideal for eating, requires staking
Fruit color: Deep red
Texture/flavor: Juicy, melting flesh, rich and intense tomato flavor
Cold tolerance: Sensitive to frost
Farming method
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost . Sow seeds 6 mm (¼ in) deep in light potting soil and maintain consistent moisture. Germination usually occurs in 7 to 14 days .
Once the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches 15°C (60°F) , gradually harden off the seedlings before transplanting them into the garden. Choose a sunny location (level 3) , sheltered from the wind, in rich, deep, and well-drained soil.
Space the plants 60 to 90 cm apart, with rows spaced approximately 90 cm apart. Install a stake, cage, or sturdy support system at planting time to support the plant's continued growth.
Regular watering is essential, i.e. 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week , applied directly to the soil to limit foliar diseases.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvesting typically begins 70 to 75 days after transplanting . Pick the fruit when it is bright red and slightly soft to the touch. Frequent harvesting promotes continuous production.
Tomatoes can be kept for a few days at room temperature. For shorter storage, they can be refrigerated once fully ripe.
Usage ideas
• Thick slices with cheese and basil
• Fresh salads and gourmet dishes
• Freshly consumed at the table
• Sandwiches and tasting platters
The organic 'Brandywine Red' tomato from McKenzie Seed Company embodies the very essence of the heirloom tomato: deep flavor, generous texture, and an inimitable character . An exceptional variety for passionate gardeners who seek above all taste, authenticity, and the pleasure of growing a legendary tomato.
