Alpha Tomato Seeds

Solanum lycopersicum. The ‘Alpha’ tomato is an heirloom variety with a history dating back to the late 1800s, specifically preserved and shared by Harold Steves of the Steves family in Richmond, BC. This particular strain is a determinate, bush-style plant that is highly valued for its extreme earliness, typically reaching maturity in about 70 days. This short growing cycle allows the plant to produce a full crop before late-season blight becomes a threat, making it a reliable choice for gardeners in climates with damp or short summers.

The fruit is prolific and ranges in size from 4 to 7cm. The characteristics of the tomatoes change throughout the harvest: the earliest fruits are meaty with very few seeds, while the later tomatoes tend to be juicier and contain more seeds. It is a tough, round, red tomato that resists cracking even after heavy rainfall. Because it is a determinate variety, it stays relatively compact but produces a heavy yield, making it suitable for both market farmers and home gardeners who need a dependable red tomato that beats the weather.

Seed Starting Directions:

1. Timing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, usually in March or early April.

2. Containers: Use seed-starting mix in trays or small pots.

3. Planting: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.

4. Heat: Keep soil between 21°C and 27°C.

5. Light: Once they sprout, provide 14–16 hours of strong light per day.

6. Hardening Off: Gradually expose plants to outdoor conditions for a week before moving them permanently.

7. Transplanting: Move outside after the last frost, spacing plants 24–36 inches apart.

These seeds are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.