Burpee Tomato Seeds: Complete Growing Guide for Gardeners

Burpee tomato seeds are premium-quality, non-GMO seeds from one of America's oldest and most trusted seed companies, offering over 50 tomato varieties with reliable germination rates, disease resistance, and proven performance in home gardens across USDA hardiness zones 3-10.

Why Gardeners Trust Burpee Tomato Seeds

For more than 140 years, Burpee Seeds has been a cornerstone of American gardening. Founded in 1876, the company pioneered the mail-order seed business and continues to set industry standards for seed quality and reliability. When you choose Burpee tomato seeds, you're selecting varieties that have been rigorously tested for germination rates (typically 85-95%), disease resistance, and flavor profile.

Top Burpee Tomato Varieties Compared

Variety Name	Type	Days to Maturity	Disease Resistance	Best For
Big Boy Hybrid	Beefsteak	78	VFN	Fresh eating, sandwiches
Early Girl Hybrid	Medium	54	VFN	Short-season gardens
Brandywine	Heirloom	80	None	Flavor enthusiasts
Sun Gold	Cherry	57	VF	Snacking, salads
Roma VF	Plum	75	VF	Sauces, canning

VFN indicates resistance to Verticillium wilt, Fusarium wilt, and nematodes. VF indicates resistance to Verticillium and Fusarium wilt.

Planting Timeline for Success

Timing your Burpee tomato seed planting correctly is crucial for a bountiful harvest. According to the USDA Agricultural Research Service, tomatoes require soil temperatures of at least 60°F (15.5°C) for proper germination. Here's a season-long timeline:

• 6-8 weeks before last frost: Start seeds indoors under grow lights
• Last frost date: Begin hardening off seedlings
• 2 weeks after last frost: Transplant hardened seedlings outdoors
• Flowering stage: Maintain consistent moisture (1-2 inches per week)
• 60-85 days after transplanting: Begin harvesting depending on variety

Optimal Growing Conditions

Burpee tomato seeds perform best when planted in locations that receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The University of Minnesota Extension recommends these specific conditions:

• Soil pH: 6.2-6.8 (slightly acidic)
• Soil temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C) for optimal growth
• Spacing: 24-36 inches between plants, 4-5 feet between rows
• Watering: Deep, infrequent watering (1-2 inches weekly)

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with high-quality Burpee tomato seeds, gardeners may encounter challenges. Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations:

• Blossom end rot: Caused by calcium deficiency, often due to inconsistent watering. Prevent by maintaining even soil moisture and adding calcium-rich amendments.
• Early blight: Circular spots with concentric rings on lower leaves. Manage with crop rotation and copper-based fungicides.
• Hornworms: Large green caterpillars that defoliate plants. Hand-pick or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
• Blight in humid climates: Some varieties struggle in high humidity. Choose resistant varieties like Burpee's 'Defiant PHR'.

According to the Oregon State University Extension, proper spacing and airflow reduce disease incidence by up to 40% in home gardens.

Harvesting for Maximum Flavor

The flavor peak for tomatoes occurs when they're fully vine-ripened. Burpee tomato seeds produce fruit that should be harvested when:

• Fruit reaches full color (red, yellow, or other variety-specific color)
• Slight softness can be felt when gently squeezed
• Fruit separates easily from the stem with a gentle twist

Store harvested tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration diminishes flavor compounds, so only refrigerate if necessary to prevent spoilage of overripe fruit.

Extending Your Tomato Season

With proper techniques, you can enjoy tomatoes from Burpee seeds well beyond the first frost:

• Use black plastic mulch to warm soil 5-10°F earlier in the season
• Employ wall o' water plant protectors for early spring planting
• Choose determinate varieties for concentrated harvests
• Plant succession crops every 2 weeks for continuous production

Are Burpee tomato seeds organic?

Burpee offers both conventional and certified organic tomato seed options. Look for the 'Organic' designation on the seed packet or product description. Their organic seeds are certified by the USDA National Organic Program.

How long do Burpee tomato seeds remain viable?

When stored properly in a cool, dry place, Burpee tomato seeds maintain good germination rates for 3-5 years. For optimal viability, store seeds in an airtight container with a desiccant packet at temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

What's the difference between hybrid and heirloom Burpee tomato seeds?

Hybrid Burpee tomato seeds (marked F1) are bred for specific traits like disease resistance and uniformity. Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated, non-hybrid seeds passed down through generations, prized for unique flavors and historical significance but often with less disease resistance.

Can I save seeds from Burpee tomato plants for next year?

You can save seeds from open-pollinated and heirloom Burpee tomato varieties, but not from hybrid (F1) varieties as they won't produce true-to-type plants. For heirlooms, ferment the seeds for 3-5 days, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before storage.