Pink Brandywine isn't just a tomato — it's a warm summer afternoon, a quilt on the porch swing, and the scent of honeysuckle on the breeze. With lace-edged leaves and fruit the color of a country sunset, this heirloom brings more than flavor to the table. It carries memory. Whether sliced thick for a tomato sandwich or admired for its old-soul charm, Pink Brandywine turns your garden into a place where time slows down and summer lingers just a little longer.

Growth Habit

Pink Brandywine grows as a tall, vigorous indeterminate vine, typically reaching 6–7 feet with proper support. The distinctive potato-leaf foliage sets it apart from standard tomato plants, with smooth-edged leaves that add ornamental value to the garden. This variety requires strong staking or caging to support its productive vines throughout the growing season.

Production Notes

Fruit Set & Yield

Moderate to high yield, though variable depending on weather conditions. Early season heat can affect fruit set, with best production occurring in moderate summer temperatures. Fruits develop best with steady, consistent watering throughout the season.

Disease Considerations

Shows fair disease resistance overall, but can be sensitive to Septoria leaf spot and other foliar diseases in humid conditions. Proper spacing, good airflow, and preventative measures are important for maintaining plant health through the season.

Weather Performance

Performs best in years with moderate summer heat. Extreme heat during flowering can reduce fruit set. Flavor development is optimal with steady growing conditions and adequate moisture.

Growing Notes — Storeys in the Dirt Observations

Soil & Fertilization

• Performs exceptionally well in rich, well-draining KNF-amended soil
• Benefits from mid-season calcium and potassium supplementation
• Responds well to regular LAB foliar applications
• FPJ (Fermented Plant Juice) applied at flowering stage improves fruit quality

Companion Planting

• Thrives when planted near basil and borage
• Marigolds planted nearby help reduce pest pressure
• Good spacing from other plants ensures adequate airflow

Pest Management

• Monitor regularly for tomato hornworms, especially mid-season
• Responds well to BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) treatment when needed
• Preventative observation more effective than reactive treatment

KNF Applications

• Regular LAB (Lactic Acid Bacteria) foliar spray supports plant health
• FPJ application during flowering and early fruit set stages
• Calcium supplementation during fruit development prevents blossom end rot

Seed Saving Goals

Current Status: Planned for 2025 harvest season

Selection Criteria:

• Largest, most uniform fruits
• Best-flavored specimens from healthy plants
• Early fruit set characteristics
• Disease resistance in humid conditions

Goals for 2026:

• Select for earlier, more consistent fruit set
• Improve flavor stability across varying weather conditions
• Maintain heirloom characteristics while enhancing adaptability