Everything you Wanted to Know About Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Abe Lincoln tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) have a long and storied history, having been introduced by the W.H. Buckbee Seed Company of Rockford, Illinois, in 1895. Thomas Jefferson was so impressed that he grew them in his garden!

These large and dark red tomatoes weigh 8-12 oz each. They have an intense, sweet flavor and are perfect for slicing into salads or sandwiches. Here is everything else you need to know about Abe Lincoln tomatoes.

What are Abe Lincoln’s Tomatoes?

Abe Lincoln tomatoes are a large variety of tomatoes with a sweet and juicy flavor. They are usually round, dark red, and very large, weighing 8-12 oz each. The skin is thin yet strong enough to hold up when slicing. Abe Lincoln tomatoes have an intense sweetness that makes them perfect for salads or sandwiches.

History and Origin of Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Abe Lincoln tomatoes were introduced by the W.H. Buckbee Seed Company of Rockford, Illinois, in 1895 and named after the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Thomas Jefferson was so impressed that he grew them in his garden! The variety quickly became popular throughout the U.S., as it was a reliable tomato even during difficult growing conditions.

Description of Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

The skin is thin yet strong enough to hold up when slicing. They are usually round, dark red, and very large, weighing 8-12 oz each. Abe Lincoln tomatoes have an intense sweetness that makes them perfect for salads or sandwiches.

The flavor profile of Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Abe Lincoln tomatoes have a sweet, and juicy flavor. The intense sweetness makes them stand out from other varieties and a favorite among many gardeners.

Seasonality and Availability throughout the year of Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Abe Lincoln tomatoes are usually available from late summer through fall. They thrive best in warm temperatures and require full sun for optimal growth. The harvest period is typically between July and September, depending on the location and climatic conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Abe Lincoln tomatoes are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain iron, calcium, potassium, and dietary fiber. The lycopene content in Abe Lincoln tomatoes helps fight against free radicals that cause cell damage. Eating tomatoes regularly can provide numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and heart health.

Cultivation of the Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Abe Lincoln tomatoes thrive best in warm temperatures and require full sun. The soil should be well-drained during planting with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.2 for optimal growth. An adequate amount of water is important, as these tomatoes need at least 1 inch per week during the growing season. Mulching can help to reduce weeds and conserve soil moisture. Finally, pruning the vines can increase air circulation and promote larger fruit production.

Harvesting of the Abe Lincoln Tomatoes

Harvesting Abe Lincoln tomatoes is relatively simple. When the fruit has reached its optimal size, it should be carefully removed from the vine with scissors or a knife. The best time to pick these tomatoes is when their skins are fully red and yield slightly to pressure. To ensure quality, all fruits should have an even coloration and firmness. It is important to refrain from harvesting immature tomatoes, as they are not yet ripe and may have a different flavor or texture than fully-matured fruit.

Where Do Abe Lincoln Tomatoes Grow?

Abe Lincoln tomatoes can be grown in many parts of the world. They grow best in warm areas with full sun and are popular in Mediterranean countries, such as Spain and Italy. The Abe Lincoln tomato is also widely grown throughout the United States and Canada. This variety of tomatoes is particularly common in Southern states like Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi. In addition, the Abe Lincoln tomato can be found in other parts of the world, from Japan to South Africa and beyond.

What are the Things to Remember When Buying Abe Lincoln Tomatoes?

If you’re planning to purchase Abe Lincoln tomatoes, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, select fruits with an even coloration and soft skin. Second, feel for ripeness by gently pressing the tomato with your finger—it should yield slightly but not be too mushy.

Finally, look for blemishes or damage on the skin, as this could affect the flavor and texture of the fruit. If you purchase a large quantity of Abe Lincoln tomatoes, it is recommended that you store them at room temperature in a single layer to prevent bruising.

What is the Best Way to Store Abe Lincoln Tomatoes?

The best way to store Abe Lincoln tomatoes is in a single layer at room temperature. It is important to avoid storing the fruit in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause the tomatoes to over-ripen and spoil quickly. Additionally, it’s best to keep Abe Lincoln tomatoes away from strong-smelling foods, such as onions or garlic, as they can absorb the flavors.

The tomatoes should also be stored away from moisture, which can cause mold to form on the fruits. If you need to store Abe Lincoln tomatoes for longer, it is best to refrigerate them. However, they should only be washed after refrigeration, or they will spoil faster.

How can Abe Lincoln Tomatoes be used in Recipes with other Fruits and Vegetables?

Abe Lincoln tomatoes can be used in various recipes, especially those that involve other fruits and vegetables. For example, for a sweet-savory dish, tomatoes can be added to salads for extra flavor and texture or combined with other fruits like peaches or plums.

Abe Lincolns also pair well with vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, broccoli, and peppers. Additionally, the tomatoes can be used in Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and salsa for a delicious kick of flavor. For a classic combination, Abe Lincoln tomatoes can also be added to Caprese salads with fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves for a refreshing dish.

Conclusion

Abe Lincoln tomatoes are a unique variety of tomato that is known for its large size and juicy texture. These tomatoes can be used in a variety of recipes, either alone or with other fruits and vegetables, for added flavor. It’s important to store Abe Lincolns properly, at room temperature or refrigerated, depending on how long you plan to keep them. With their sweet flavor and versatile uses, Abe Lincoln tomatoes will surely be a hit in any kitchen.

Ready to discover a new favorite fruit? Ciruela, also known as Spanish Plum, is intriguing! Our article explains its irresistible charm, including its juicy flavor, history, and how you can enjoy it today.

Author
Recent Posts

Mitch Baylis

Mitch Baylis is a backyard gardener. His passion for nutrient dense, sustainably grown food has taken him across the globe in search for the best vegetable gardens on earth.