How to Grow Blackbird Tomato
Blackbird Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Blackbird'
vegetableBlackbird is a determinate cherry tomato variety prized for its deep purple-black fruit with rich, complex flavor. It produces abundant clusters of small, sweet tomatoes on compact plants, making it ideal for containers and small spaces. The dark coloring comes from high anthocyanin content, providing both visual appeal and antioxidant benefits.
When should you plant Blackbird Tomato in your zone?
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Example Blackbird Tomato timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blackbird Tomato
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Blackbird Tomato
Around Jun 21≈ 65 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Blackbird Tomato dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; can be grown in zones 3-4 with season extension and in zones 10+ with afternoon shade
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Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall plants with 2-4 true leaves; still fragile and light green
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light or grow lights 2-3 inches above seedlings; maintain 65-75°F temperature
Vegetative
3-4 weeks after transplantingBushy, compact growth; dark green foliage developing; plant reaches 12-18 inches tall
Harden off transplants before planting outdoors; plant deeply to encourage strong root system; pinch off lower branches for air circulation; stake or support early
Flowering
2-3 weeksSmall yellow flowers appear in clusters; plant continues compact growth; first flower clusters visible at 4-6 weeks after planting
Maintain consistent watering and temperature; avoid overfeeding nitrogen which reduces flowering; ensure adequate sunlight; may need hand-pollination if indoors
Fruiting
3-4 weeksGreen marble-sized fruits develop at flower sites; clusters of 5-10 fruits per truss; fruits gradually enlarge
Continue consistent watering to prevent blossom end rot and fruit cracking; apply mulch to regulate soil moisture; provide support for branches as fruit weight increases
Maturation & Harvest
Continuous harvest for 6-8 weeks or until frostFruits transition from green to deep purple-black; fully ripe fruits are nearly black with some red undertones; sweet, complex flavor develops
Harvest when fully black for best flavor; allow fruits to ripen fully on vine; reduce watering slightly as plants mature; continue harvesting to encourage more flowering
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt); encourage parasitic wasps; inspect plants regularly
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; use yellow sticky traps; maintain good air circulation
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use neem oil; introduce predatory mites
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Remove lower infected leaves; improve air circulation; mulch to prevent soil splash; apply copper fungicide if severe
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Remove affected foliage immediately; spray with copper or chlorothalonil; ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Fresh Eating & Snacking
CulinaryBlackbird tomatoes are prized as a fresh eating variety with exceptional sweetness and complex flavor. Their small size makes them perfect for snacking straight from the plant or adding whole to salads. [source]
Salads & Garnishes
CulinaryThe striking deep purple-black color makes Blackbird tomatoes visually dramatic in fresh salads, caprese dishes, and as garnishes. Their firm flesh holds up well when sliced or halved. [source]
Antioxidant Content
MedicinalThe dark purple-black pigmentation indicates high anthocyanin and lycopene content, powerful antioxidants linked to reduced inflammation and heart health benefits. [source]
Container Gardening
HouseholdThe determinate, compact growth habit of Blackbird makes it excellent for container growing on patios, balconies, and small spaces. A 5-gallon pot is sufficient for vigorous plants. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant small flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the growing season, supporting local ecosystems while ensuring good fruit set. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when fruits are fully black (not red-tinged) for peak flavor and sweetness; gently twist or snip from vine; cherry tomatoes continue ripening for a few days after picking, but flavor is best when fully ripe on vine; pick regularly to encourage continued flowering; harvest before first frost
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Blackbird was developed by Tom Wagner, a renowned tomato breeder, and is part of his 'Black Cherry Tomato' breeding line that combines disease resistance with exceptional flavor
- 🌱 The deep purple-black color becomes more intense when the plant receives plenty of sunlight and warm temperatures, making it a true sun-lover for maximum coloration
- 🌱 Despite their dark appearance, Blackbird tomatoes have sweeter flavor and lower acidity than red cherry tomatoes, with some describing notes of blueberry and currant
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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