Tomato Buffalosun F1 Seed Packet - Thompson & Morgan
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For home gardeners seeking a high-quality cordon tomato with heirloom appeal and modern resilience, the 'Buffalosun' F1 seeds offer a rewarding harvest of large, flavourful beefsteak tomatoes. Its key benefit lies in its blend of attractive appearance, excellent taste, and disease resistance. A caveat to note is its requirement for support and specific growing conditions to thrive.
All features
| Model Part Number | BUFFALOSUNF1 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is an F1 hybrid tomato seed?
An F1 hybrid seed is the first generation offspring of a cross between two distinct parent varieties. This often results in plants with improved vigour, uniformity, and disease resistance compared to open-pollinated varieties.
Can I grow 'Buffalosun' F1 in containers?
Yes, 'Buffalosun' F1 can be grown in large containers (at least 10 gallons) as long as they are in a sunny, sheltered location and the plant is provided with adequate support, water, and nutrients.
When should I start feeding my tomato plants?
Begin feeding your 'Buffalosun' F1 plants with a high-potash fertiliser once the first fruits begin to set. Continue feeding regularly throughout the growing season.
What does 'cordon type' mean for tomatoes?
Cordon type tomatoes are 'determinate' growers in terms of fruit production but grow tall and require continuous staking and pruning of side shoots to manage their vertical growth and encourage ripening along a single main stem.
How do I stop side shoots?
Side shoots (or 'suckers') are small growths that appear in the 'V' where a leaf stem joins the main stem. Gently pinch these out with your fingers or snip them with clean secateurs as soon as you see them, typically weekly.
Why should I pinch out the tip of the main stem?
Pinching out the main stem once 6-7 fruit trusses have formed redirects the plant's energy into ripening the existing fruit rather than producing new flowers and leaves, leading to a better harvest before the end of the season.
Are these seeds suitable for direct sowing outdoors?
While seeds can be sown outdoors from March to April, starting them indoors from February to April is recommended for a head start and better germination success, especially in the UK climate.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure consistent temperature (15-20°C) and adequate moisture in the compost. Check that the compost is free-draining.
Seedlings are leggy and weak
Provide more light and slightly cooler temperatures after germination. Ensure adequate spacing once transplanted into pots.
Yellowing leaves on mature plants
This could indicate a nutrient deficiency. Start feeding with a high-potash fertiliser once fruit begins to set. Ensure consistent watering.
Poor fruit set
Ensure the plant is in a sunny location and receiving adequate water. Hand-pollination may be necessary in very cool or windy conditions.
Signs of blight on leaves or fruit
While resistant, severe conditions can still cause issues. Remove affected parts immediately. Ensure good air circulation around plants.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Produces large, attractive, and flavourful beefsteak tomatoes.
- Good resistance to common diseases like late blight.
- Vigorous growth habit suitable for UK climates.
- Combines heirloom appearance with modern hybrid benefits.
- Ideal for slicing and fresh consumption.
Cons
- Requires support (staking) as it grows.
- Needs specific temperatures for germination and early growth.
- Requires regular watering and feeding once fruit sets.
- Best grown in a sunny, sheltered location.
- Half-hardy, requiring protection from frost.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Indoors:
Sow seeds from February to April for greenhouse cultivation, or March to April for outdoor planting. Use a moist, free-draining seed compost.
Germination Conditions:
Maintain a temperature of 15–20°C. Germination usually occurs within 7–14 days.
Transplanting Seedlings:
Once seedlings have developed two true leaves, transplant them into 7.5cm pots. Ensure a minimum temperature of 15°C.
Final Planting:
After the risk of frost has passed (late May for greenhouses, early June for outdoors), transplant to final positions. Space plants 60cm apart.
Location & Soil:
Select a sunny, sheltered spot with fertile, moist, and well-drained soil.
Support:
Support plants with a 5' cane and tie the main stem as it grows.
Watering & Feeding:
Water regularly and feed with a high-potash fertiliser once fruit begins to set.
Pruning:
Remove any side shoots that appear. Pinch out the tip of the main stem when 6–7 fruit trusses have formed.
Care Note: This is a half-hardy annual; protect from frost.