Mr. Tomato: Complete Guide to This Striped Heirloom Variety

Mr. Tomato (also known as Mr. Stripey) is a popular heirloom tomato variety characterized by its distinctive yellow and red marbled appearance, sweet flavor with low acidity, and large beefsteak-sized fruits typically weighing 12-16 ounces. This indeterminate vine produces abundant yields throughout the growing season and matures in approximately 80 days from transplanting.

Discover why gardeners and chefs consistently choose Mr. Tomato for its exceptional flavor profile and striking visual appeal. Whether you're planning your next garden or seeking the perfect tomato for summer salads, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about cultivating and utilizing this remarkable heirloom variety.

What Makes Mr. Tomato Stand Out in Your Garden

Mr. Tomato, scientifically classified as Solanum lycopersicum 'Mr. Stripey', represents one of the most visually distinctive heirloom varieties available to home gardeners today. Unlike standard red tomatoes, this variety showcases a beautiful marbled pattern of golden yellow and vibrant red streaks that creates a stunning presentation when sliced.

Originating from unknown sources (a common characteristic of many heirloom varieties), Mr. Tomato gained popularity in the late 20th century as gardeners rediscovered unique tomato varieties beyond commercial hybrids. Its exact lineage remains somewhat mysterious, which adds to its heirloom charm but also means genetic consistency can vary between seed suppliers.

Tomato Variety	Color Pattern	Average Weight	Days to Maturity	Flavor Profile
Mr. Tomato (Mr. Stripey)	Red and yellow marbled	12-16 oz	80 days	Sweet, low acidity
Brandywine	Deep pink to red	12-24 oz	80-100 days	Complex, classic tomato
Cherokee Purple	Deep purple-brown	10-14 oz	75-85 days	Sweet, earthy
Roma	Bright red	2-4 oz	75 days	Balanced, less juicy

Visual Characteristics That Impress Gardeners and Chefs

The most immediately noticeable feature of Mr. Tomato is its striking coloration. As the fruit ripens, it develops a beautiful marbled pattern of golden yellow and vibrant red streaks that creates a stunning presentation when sliced. This visual appeal makes it a favorite for caprese salads, sandwiches, and any dish where presentation matters.

Each fruit typically reaches 3-4 inches in diameter and weighs between 12-16 ounces, though some exceptional specimens can exceed 2 pounds under ideal growing conditions. The skin is relatively thin yet resilient, providing good protection while maintaining that desirable heirloom texture.

Flavor Profile and Culinary Applications

Mr. Tomato delivers a sweet, well-balanced flavor with notably low acidity compared to many red tomato varieties. This makes it particularly appealing to those who find standard tomatoes too tart. The flesh is meaty with fewer seed cavities than many heirloom varieties, providing more substantial texture for slicing.

Chef recommendations for using Mr. Tomato include:

• Slicing for sandwiches and burgers where its visual appeal shines
• Creating vibrant summer salads with contrasting colors
• Preparing fresh salsas that benefit from its sweet profile
• Using in BLT sandwiches as a visually striking alternative to standard tomatoes
• Roasting to concentrate its natural sugars for sauces

Optimal Growing Conditions for Maximum Yield

Mr. Tomato performs best in warm climates with extended growing seasons. As an indeterminate variety, it continues producing fruit throughout the season until killed by frost, requiring substantial support through staking or caging.

Key growing requirements include:

• Full sun exposure (at least 6-8 hours daily)
• Well-draining soil with pH between 6.2-6.8
• Consistent moisture (1-2 inches per week)
• Regular feeding with balanced organic fertilizer
• Proper spacing (24-36 inches between plants)

Gardeners in cooler climates should start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date and transplant outdoors when soil temperatures consistently exceed 60°F (15°C). The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources program recommends mulching around tomato plants to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature, which is particularly beneficial for heirloom varieties like Mr. Tomato that can be more sensitive to environmental fluctuations.

Regional Suitability and Climate Considerations

While Mr. Tomato can be grown in most temperate regions, its performance varies based on local climate conditions. Gardeners in USDA hardiness zones 5-11 generally achieve the best results with this variety.

Important regional considerations:

• In humid southeastern regions: Provide excellent air circulation to prevent fungal diseases
• In arid southwestern regions: Increase watering frequency and provide afternoon shade
• In northern climates: Start seeds early indoors and use black plastic mulch to warm soil
• In coastal areas: Monitor for blossom end rot due to calcium fluctuations

According to data from the USDA Agricultural Research Service, tomato varieties with thinner skins like Mr. Tomato may be more susceptible to cracking during periods of rapid moisture change, so consistent watering practices are essential for maintaining fruit quality.

Historical Context of Heirloom Tomatoes

The story of Mr. Tomato is part of the larger narrative of heirloom tomato preservation:

• Pre-1940s: Thousands of tomato varieties cultivated by home gardeners and small farms
• 1940s-1970s: Commercialization favors uniform, durable varieties; many heirlooms nearly lost
• 1980s: Growing interest in heirloom varieties among gardeners and specialty farmers
• 1990s: Mr. Stripey (Mr. Tomato) emerges as a popular heirloom variety in seed catalogs
• 2000s-Present: Increased availability through seed companies and farmer's markets

Where to Source Authentic Mr. Tomato Seeds

Due to its popularity, Mr. Tomato seeds are widely available from reputable seed companies. However, quality and genetic authenticity can vary significantly between suppliers. For the most reliable results, consider these established seed providers:

• Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds (known for rigorous variety verification)
• Seed Savers Exchange (nonprofit dedicated to heirloom preservation)
• Adaptive Seeds (specializes in regionally adapted varieties)
• Your local agricultural extension office (for regionally tested varieties)

When purchasing seeds, look for suppliers who provide detailed growing information and maintain open-pollinated stock. Avoid sources that don't specify whether seeds are F1 hybrids (which won't produce true-to-type offspring) versus genuine heirloom varieties.

Troubleshooting Common Growing Challenges

Like all tomatoes, Mr. Tomato faces certain challenges that gardeners should anticipate:

Fruit Cracking: This variety's thin skin makes it susceptible to cracking during rapid moisture changes. Maintain consistent soil moisture and consider harvesting nearly ripe fruit before heavy rains.

Blossom End Rot: Caused by calcium deficiency often related to inconsistent watering. Apply calcium supplements and maintain even moisture levels.

Fungal Diseases: In humid climates, watch for early blight and powdery mildew. Provide proper spacing for air circulation and remove affected leaves promptly.

According to Cornell University's Vegetable MD Online resource, implementing a regular preventative fungicide schedule using copper-based organic options can significantly reduce disease pressure on heirloom tomatoes in humid regions.

Is Mr. Tomato the same as Mr. Stripey tomato?

Yes, Mr. Tomato and Mr. Stripey refer to the same heirloom tomato variety. The name 'Mr. Stripey' describes its distinctive marbled appearance, while 'Mr. Tomato' is a common marketing name used by seed companies. Both names refer to the same variety with yellow and red streaked fruits.

How long does it take for Mr. Tomato to produce fruit?

Mr. Tomato typically matures in approximately 80 days from transplanting. This means you can expect the first ripe fruits about 10-12 weeks after planting seedlings in your garden. The indeterminate growth habit means it will continue producing fruit throughout the growing season until killed by frost.

Why are my Mr. Tomato fruits cracking?

Mr. Tomato's thin skin makes it particularly susceptible to cracking, especially during periods of inconsistent watering or after heavy rains. To prevent cracking, maintain consistent soil moisture, apply mulch to regulate soil moisture, and consider harvesting nearly ripe fruits before expected heavy rainfall.

Can I save seeds from Mr. Tomato for next year?

Yes, you can save seeds from Mr. Tomato as it's an open-pollinated heirloom variety. To ensure purity, prevent cross-pollination by isolating plants or covering flowers. Ferment the seeds for 3-5 days to remove the gelatinous coating, then dry thoroughly before storing in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for 4-6 years.

What's the best way to store harvested Mr. Tomato fruits?

Store ripe Mr. Tomato fruits at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to 5 days. Never refrigerate tomatoes as cold temperatures destroy flavor compounds and alter texture. For longer storage, process into sauces or freeze whole after blanching. Unripe fruits can be stored in a single layer at 55-70°F to continue ripening.