The Mortgage Lifter Tomato: A Garden Gem with a Rich History

The Mortgage Lifter tomato is a beloved indeterminate heirloom variety known for its meaty texture, mild flavor, and fascinating backstory.

Gardeners and food enthusiasts alike cherish this tomato for its exceptional qualities, making it a staple in many home gardens.

This blog post will examine what makes this tomato special, its historical origins, best uses, and varieties.

What is the Mortgage Lifter Tomato?

The Mortgage Lifter tomato is an heirloom variety renowned for its large size and delectable taste. These tomatoes weigh up to two pounds each and have a slightly flattened shape.

Their pinkish-red flesh is dense and juicy, making them perfect for a variety of culinary uses.

Best Uses for the Mortgage Lifter Tomato

• Slicing: Perfect for sandwiches and burgers due to their large size and firm texture.
• Salads: Adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Sauces: Their meaty consistency makes them ideal for rich, homemade sauces.
• Canning: Excellent for preserving to enjoy throughout the year.

The History of the Mortgage Lifter Tomato

The Mortgage Lifter tomato’s history is as rich as its flavor. It was developed in the 1930s by a man named “Radiator Charlie”, whose real name was M.C. Byles. Charlie was not a professional plant breeder; he was a radiator repairman (hence the nickname). During the Great Depression, Charlie needed a way to pay off his mortgage.

He crossbred four of the largest tomatoes he could find: German Johnson, Beefsteak, an unknown Italian variety, and an English variety. After six years of careful breeding, he created this new tomato.

The result was a tomato that produced large, tasty fruits and was extremely prolific. Charlie sold the seedlings for $1 each, a hefty sum at the time, and was able to pay off his $6,000 mortgage in just six years. Hence, the name “Mortgage Lifter” was born.

Different Varieties of Mortgage Lifter Tomatoes

While the original is the most well-known, several varieties have been developed over the years. Here are a few notable ones:

• Radiator Charlie’s Mortgage Lifter: The original and most popular variety.
• Red Mortgage Lifter: Similar to the original but with a deeper red color.
• Yellow Mortgage Lifter: Offers a milder flavor with a yellow hue.
• Pink Mortgage Lifter: A sweeter version with a beautiful pink color.

Growing Mortgage Lifter Tomatoes

We have a bed full of these growing in our garden right now, but they don’t have fruit yet. So I snagged a pic from TrueLeaf Market’s website. We buy a lot of seeds from them, and we’re also an affiliate. So if you click the link below the photo & decide to buy something from them, we’ll get a small commission.

If you’re considering adding these awesome tomatoes to your garden, here are some tips to ensure a bountiful harvest:

Soil and Planting

• Soil Preparation: Use well-drained, fertile, healthy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
• Planting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors when the soil has warmed.

Watering and Care

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage.
• Fertilizing: Use an organic fertilizer to promote healthy growth. I generally add a bit of bonemeal to the hole when I plant my tomatoes and then use TomatoTone on all of them periodically for the rest of the season.
• Pruning: Prune the lower leaves to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

Pest and Disease Management

• Pests: Watch out for common tomato pests like aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies. Use organic insecticides or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to keep pests in check.
• Diseases: Prevent diseases such as blight and mildew by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Harvesting

• Timing: Harvest tomatoes before they are fully ripe. You’ll still get the best flavor, and you’ll reduce the risks involved with waiting until they are fully ripe.
• Storing: Store harvested tomatoes at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can negatively affect the flavor and texture.

Further Reading and Resources

For those interested in diving deeper into the world of heirloom tomatoes and advanced gardening techniques, check out these resources:

• Heirloom Tomato Gardening Tips
• Organic Pest Control Methods
• Tomato Disease Identification and Management

Conclusion

The Mortgage Lifter tomato is more than just a tasty addition to your garden—it’s a slice of horticultural history. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a newbie, growing this tomato can be a rewarding experience.

From its origins with Radiator Charlie to its various delicious uses, the Mortgage Lifter remains a beloved favorite among gardeners. So, give them a try. I think you’ll be glad you did!

Happy gardening!