Vintage Wine tomatoes can grow to a height of about 2 meters or 78-80 inches. This makes them quite tall compared to other tomato varieties. The plants have a vigorous growth habit, with strong vines that tend to sprawl if not properly supported.
One of the distinguishing features of Vintage Wine tomatoes is their foliage, which is potato-leaved. This means that the leaves resemble those of a potato plant, with a more rounded shape and fewer leaflets compared to the typical tomato leaf. The potato-like foliage adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant, giving it a unique and attractive look in the garden.
To ensure the plants stay manageable and upright, pruning and tying are necessary. As the vines grow, it’s important to remove any suckers that develop in the leaf axils. Suckers are the small shoots that emerge between the main stem and the branches. By removing these suckers, the plant’s energy is directed towards fruit production rather than excessive vegetative growth.
Tying the vines to a trellis or stake is also important to support the weight of the growing tomatoes. This prevents the vines from sprawling on the ground, which can lead to disease and pest problems. It also helps to improve air circulation around the plants, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Vintage Wine tomatoes are often mistaken for heirloom varieties due to their appearance, but they are actually a relatively recent introduction from Europe. Despite their newness, they have quickly gained popularity among gardeners for their excellent flavor and unique attributes.
In my personal experience, I have grown Vintage Wine tomatoes in my own garden. I was initially drawn to their potato-leaved foliage and decided to give them a try. I found that they grew quite tall and required regular pruning and tying to keep them upright. However, the effort was well worth it as the plants produced an abundance of delicious tomatoes with a rich and complex flavor.
Vintage Wine tomatoes are a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for a unique and flavorful tomato variety. While they do require some extra attention and care due to their size, the reward of a bountiful harvest of tasty tomatoes makes it all worthwhile.
