Tomato - Cherry, Chocolate (seeds)

The Chocolate Cherry Tomato is a delightful heirloom variety that stands out due to its unique appearance and flavor. 
 
Appearance
The Chocolate Cherry Tomato derives its name from the deep brown blush on the skin as it ripens and matures. While otherwise a rich brick red, the chocolate-colored shading is the trait that makes this cherry tomato stand out from the crowd. The fruit grows in a beautiful shade of brick red or brown, with the word “chocolate” indicating the chocolaty brown shading on the skin. These tomatoes are small and round, roughly the size of grapes.
 
Flavor and Characteristics
Chocolate Cherry Tomatoes are notably tasty and crack-resistant. They belong to the Solanaceae family and are classified as frost-sensitive annuals. The fruit is not only delicious but also crack-resistant, making it suitable for salads, snacking, or canning. Most people enjoy these tomatoes fresh in salads or as a healthy snack. The main antioxidants in Chocolate Cherry Tomatoes are anthocyanin and lycopene. You can even pick the fruit before it’s fully mature, as it can easily ripen indoors.
 
Growing Tips
Chocolate Cherry Tomatoes thrive in hot weather and require full sun exposure. The ideal temperature range for their growth is 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29 degrees Celsius). Plant them in well-draining soil enriched with compost and minerals (soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.8). If you start from seeds, sow them 6-8 weeks before the last frost in spring. Water young seedlings with a mixture of water and Epsom salt. Mature plants benefit from one or two deep watering sessions per week. Enjoy at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily for healthy growth.
 
Remember, growing your own Chocolate Cherry Tomatoes allows you to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce with a delightful twist!