Marglobe Supreme Heirloom Tomatoes

The plant typically grows to about 4-6 feet in height and produces medium to large-sized fruits. The tomatoes are round, smooth-skinned, and have a deep red color when ripe. They are known for their juicy flesh and rich, sweet flavor, making them ideal for salads, sandwiches, sauces, and canning.

Historical Information and Fun Facts:

The Marglobe tomato variety was first developed in the 1920s by the USDA plant breeder Fred J. Pritchard. It quickly gained popularity among home gardeners and commercial growers due to its excellent disease resistance and high yields. Over the years, different strains of Marglobe tomatoes have been developed, with Marglobe Supreme being one of the most sought-after variations.

Fun Fact: The name “Marglobe” is derived from a combination of the words “Margaret” and “Globe,” which refers to the tomato’s globe-like shape.

Materials Needed to Grow Marglobe Supreme Tomatoes from Seeds:

1. Marglobe Supreme tomato seeds
2. Seed starting trays or pots
3. Seed starting mix or potting soil
4. Grow lights or sunny windowsill
5. Watering can or spray bottle
6. Fertilizer (optional)
7. Mulch (optional)
8. Support stakes or cages (for larger plants)

Steps to Grow Marglobe Supreme Tomatoes from Seeds:

1. Seed Preparation: If you’re using store-bought seeds, no special preparation is needed. However, if you’re saving seeds from existing tomatoes, ensure they are fully ripe, scoop out the seeds, and ferment them in water for a few days to remove the gel coating. Rinse and dry the seeds before planting.

2. Planting Seeds: Fill seed starting trays or pots with seed starting mix or potting soil. Plant 2-3 seeds per cell or pot, about ¼ inch deep. Water the soil thoroughly.

3. Providing Light and Water: Place the trays or pots in a warm location with plenty of sunlight or under grow lights. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Using a spray bottle can help avoid disturbing the seeds.

4. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and are about 6-8 inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the garden. Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun.

5. Support and Maintenance: As the plants grow, provide support with stakes or cages to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight of the fruit. Water regularly, and consider fertilizing every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

6. Harvesting: Marglobe Supreme tomatoes typically ripen 70-80 days after transplanting. Harvest them when they are fully red and firm to the touch. Simply twist or cut the tomatoes from the vine.

Uses and Medicinal Benefits of Marglobe Supreme Tomatoes:

1. Nutritional Benefits: Marglobe Supreme tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and lycopene, which are beneficial for overall health and immune function.

2. Heart Health: The lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of LDL cholesterol and improving blood vessel function.

3. Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in tomatoes, including lycopene, may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly prostate cancer.

4. Skin Health: The vitamin C in tomatoes promotes collagen production, which can help keep the skin healthy and youthful-looking.

5. Digestive Health: Tomatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and can help prevent constipation.

6. Vision Support: The beta-carotene in tomatoes is converted into vitamin A in the body, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and eye function.