Solanum lycopersicum ( Mortgage Lifter ) is a large fruiting, open pollinated, indeterminate, heirloom variety of tomato that originated from Virginia, US in the 1930’s. The tomatoes can weigh in at a whopping average of 500gms to 1kg (1.1-2.2 lbs) each, while still retaining that delicious beefy, juicy tomato flavour. The Mortgage Lifter and varieties developed from it have become world famous and are a very popular garden tomato.
The Mortgage Lifter was bred by a mechanic in Logan. Virginia, US during the depression. He was known as Radiator Charlie and like most people during the depression years struggled to pay his mortgage. However, after developing this tomato, which took several years, and the variety becoming a huge (literally) success, he used the profits to pay off his mortgage in only 6 years … Hence the name the ‘Mortgage Lifter’.
To view our full range of edible plants, fruit & vegetables click here.
Growth
The Mortgage Lifter Tomato plant is a large growing plant can reach up to 2-3m (6.5-10 feet) high and 100cm in width. This variety is indeterminate & climbing one, it is vital to provide some lattice, stakes or other form of support and train/tie the plant as it grows. Supporting tomato plants this way will increase air circulation & sunlight to branches, while also assisting with disease and pest reduction; it really is important if you want a large, healthy crop.
When cared for well this variety will produce around 15-18kg of fruit per plant. It is a little more drought tolerant than some other varieties but will appreciate regular watering and care. Fruit colour is red, often with a pinkish tinge.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Solanaceae
CLIMATE:
All climates
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
10°C to 35°C / 50 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
Well drained, compost rich, loamy, or sandy.
LOCATION:
Full Sun. Will tolerate some afternoon shade but full sun for at least 8 hours a day preferred,
HEIGHT:
1.5-3 metres (5-10 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 100 centimetres (3 feet)
pH:
6.0-6.7
GROWTH TYPE:
Annual, indeterminate, climber.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium.
POLLINATION:
Self-pollinating. Bees and insects can help.
MATURITY:
100-120 days.
GERMINATION RATES:
86-91%
GERMINATION TIME:
9-14 days in ideal temperatures.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy in the right climate.
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 360
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 5 years.
FACTS ABOUT SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM (Mortgage Lifter Tomato)
Mortgage Lifter Tomatoes were so popular in the US in the 1930’s & 40’s. people would drive over 300 kilometres (200miles) to buy plants as seed were not available at that time!
The foliage of tomato plants can be toxic to humans and some pets.
Tomatoes are full of nutritional goodness like Vitamin C, K1, Potassium, Folate & Beta Carotene. For more information about tomatoes and your health, click here.
