Tomato ‘Brandywine Apricot’

Tomato Brandywine Apricot (Solanum lycopersicum) is an indeterminate heirloom variety prized for its large, flat, lightly ribbed beefsteak fruits in a beautiful apricot-orange color. Their tender, juicy, low-seed flesh offers a bright, mild, fruity flavor that is well balanced between sweetness and gentle acidity. Its distinctive potato-leaf foliage, characteristic of Brandywine lines, also adds ornamental value to the vegetable garden. Grown as an annual in Canada, it stands out for its early maturity compared with other Brandywine varieties, ripening in just 60 to 70 days and producing abundant harvests.

Tomato Brandywine Apricot thrives in full sun in rich, fertile, well-drained soil to support vigorous growth and the development of its heavy fruits. Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost at an ideal temperature of 22 to 28C (72 to 82F). Once seedlings reach 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in) tall and all danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or large containers, spacing plants approximately 60 cm (24 in) apart. Since plants can reach 1.5 to 2 m (5 to 6.5 ft) tall, sturdy support is essential to prevent the branches from bending under the weight of the fruits.

In the garden, this tomato is ideal for collector vegetable gardens, sunny rows, large containers of at least 20 L (5 gal), and ornamental edible landscapes where an early, generous heirloom variety is desired. It grows well alongside herbs, annual flowers, and seasonal vegetables that attract pollinators and encourage biodiversity throughout the garden. Its mild, tender, low-seed flesh is perfect for colorful salads, fresh dishes, thick slices, and delicate sauces. Brandywine Apricot brightens summer harvests with its warm color and refined flavor.