Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
Developed in the 1950s for gardeners seeking both flavor and resilience, Ace 55 VF Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) stands as a hallmark of dependable, homegrown quality. Unlike many modern hybrids, it retains the round, uniform beauty and mild, balanced flavor that made it a mainstay of family gardens and roadside stands for decades.
Fruits average 6–8 ounces, with smooth, firm skin and a thick, meaty interior that resists cracking and bruising—perfect for slicing, canning, or shipping. The flavor is low in acidity yet full-bodied, making it ideal for those who prefer a milder tomato that still delivers the richness of a true garden variety.
Plants are determinate and vigorous, reaching about 3–4 feet in height and producing heavy, concentrated yields over several weeks. Bred with V (Verticillium) and F (Fusarium) wilt resistance, Ace 55 VF remains one of the most reliable choices for growers in humid or disease-prone climates. Fruits ripen in 75–80 days, holding well on the vine and after harvest.
A favorite among market growers, home canners, and gardeners who value uniform, blemish-free fruit, Ace 55 VF bridges the gap between heirloom flavor and practical durability.
A true American classic—sturdy, productive, and sweetly understated, embodying the spirit of mid-century seed innovation and backyard abundance.
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Minimum Seed Count
25
Soil pH
6.0–6.5
Soil Type
Loamy
Sunlight
Full sun
Plant Spacing
24 in
Row Spacing
36 in
Support
Stake
Ideal Soil Temp
75–85°F
Seed Depth
1/4 in
Sprouts in
7–14
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Determinate
Frost Hardy
Tender
Scientific Name
Solanum lycopersicum
Maturity
80-89 Days
(from transplant)
Grow Location
Container, Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Vertical Gardening, Greenhouse, Community Garden
Non-GMO Safe Seed Pledge
How to Sow & Plant – Ace 55 VF Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Starting Indoors
Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Sow ¼ inch deep in sterile seed-starting mix and keep soil temperatures between 75–85°F (24–29°C) for uniform germination.
Maintain steady moisture but avoid waterlogging—seedlings prefer evenly damp, aerated soil. Use a heat mat for consistent warmth if starting indoors. Germination typically occurs in 7–14 days.
Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, transplant them into individual 3–4 inch pots to promote strong root growth. Provide 12–16 hours of light daily under grow lights or in a bright, south-facing window.
Hardening Off
Begin hardening off 7–10 days before transplanting. Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions—first shade, then partial sun, and finally full sun—while reducing watering slightly to toughen stems. Protect from wind and nighttime temperatures below 55°F (13°C) during this process.
Transplanting Outdoors
Transplant hardened plants outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures remain above 60°F (16°C). Choose a sunny, well-drained site enriched with compost or aged manure.
Space plants 24–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart to promote airflow and prevent fungal disease. Bury transplants up to their first true leaves to encourage strong adventitious rooting along the buried stem.
Install stakes or cages at planting time to avoid root disturbance later. Mulch with straw or shredded leaves once soil has warmed to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Direct Sowing (Warm Climates Only)
In regions with long, hot summers, seeds may be direct sown outdoors once soil is consistently above 70°F (21°C). Sow ¼ inch deep, thin to one plant every 24–30 inches, and protect young seedlings with row covers until established.
Soil Preparation
Tomatoes perform best in rich, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Mix in 2–3 inches of compost before planting and avoid soils that have recently grown tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, or potatoes to reduce disease carryover.
Adding a small handful of bone meal or composted poultry manure beneath each transplant can support early root and flower development.
How to Grow – Ace 55 VF Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Watering
Provide 1–1½ inches of water per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature. Deep, steady watering encourages strong root development and prevents cracking or blossom end rot.
Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to direct moisture at the soil line, keeping foliage dry to reduce disease risk. If overhead watering is the only option, do it early in the morning so leaves dry before nightfall.
Avoid the feast-and-famine cycle—consistent moisture is key. During fruit set, water deeply but less frequently to keep roots healthy and flavor concentrated. A heavy layer of mulch helps maintain even soil moisture and prevents soil splash.
Fertilizing
Feed every 2–3 weeks during early growth with a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 4-4-6 or 5-5-5). Once flowering begins, shift to a low-nitrogen, high-potassium formula (3-5-7) or compost tea to support steady fruit development without excessive vine growth.
Incorporate bone meal or kelp meal at transplant for phosphorus and trace minerals. Top-dress with compost or worm castings midseason to renew nutrients naturally.
Avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen—it will create lush foliage but reduce yields.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep soil weed-free to reduce competition and pest pressure. Once soil has warmed, apply 2–3 inches of mulch such as straw, compost, or shredded leaves. Mulch stabilizes soil temperature, prevents weeds, and limits splash-borne disease.
When removing weeds, disturb the soil gently around roots—tomato roots spread widely and stay near the surface.
Early in the season, black plastic mulch or landscape fabric can help preheat soil and speed early growth. Later, organic mulch keeps plants cooler and conserves moisture.
Sun & Temperature Management
Ace 55 VF thrives in full sun—6–8+ hours daily.
Ideal daytime temperatures: 75–85°F (24–29°C)
Nighttime temperatures: 60–70°F (16–21°C)
This variety handles moderate heat well, but extended highs above 90°F (32°C) can cause blossom drop. Use 30–40% shade cloth or interplant with taller crops for protection during heat waves.
Maintain airflow between plants to prevent fungal issues—especially important in humid climates.
Spacing & Support
Plant 24–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart. Though compact and determinate, Ace 55 VF benefits from sturdy cages or stakes to support heavy fruit clusters and prevent lodging.
Prune lightly—remove suckers below the first flower cluster to improve airflow, but retain upper leaves to protect fruit from sunscald. Tie stems loosely with cloth or soft twine to prevent damage.
Companion Planting
Good companions: Basil, marigolds, carrots, onions, parsley, and garlic—all deter common tomato pests and attract pollinators.
Avoid: Fennel and brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, etc.), which can inhibit growth.
Interplant nasturtiums or dill to distract aphids and hornworms. Companion herbs like basil and oregano enhance tomato flavor and discourage insect pests naturally.
Container Growing
Ace 55 VF performs well in 10–15 gallon containers. Use a well-draining organic potting mix with compost for moisture retention and fertility.
Stake or cage early to prevent root disturbance later. Containers dry quickly, so check moisture daily during summer.
Feed every 10–14 days with a diluted organic liquid fertilizer or compost tea. Shade pot sides during peak heat to protect roots and prevent premature blossom drop.
Season Extension
Use row covers or cold frames to start plants early in spring and protect from cool nights.
As the season ends, cover plants with frost cloths or move containers to sheltered spots to extend harvests a few extra weeks.
For earlier ripening, remove flowers and small green fruit 3 weeks before frost—this redirects energy into ripening mature fruit.
Stage Options: Harvest when fruits are fully red, smooth, and firm. Ace 55 VF develops a uniform color and maintains good texture on the vine, allowing for flexible picking windows.
Technique: Use pruning shears or scissors to clip fruits with a short piece of stem attached. Avoid pulling or twisting, as this can damage stems or dislodge nearby fruit clusters.
Frequency: Check plants every 2–3 days during peak ripening. Consistent harvesting encourages complete ripening of remaining fruits and reduces splitting or pest pressure.
Maturity Signs: Firm texture, full red color, and a mild tomato aroma at the stem end signal readiness. Fruits may continue to ripen off the vine if picked slightly early.
Flavor & Nutrition
Flavor Profile: Mild and balanced with lower acidity than many heirlooms—excellent for canning, juicing, and fresh slicing. Flesh is thick, meaty, and low in water content, making it a dependable utility tomato.
Nutrition: High in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to cardiovascular and cellular health.
Flavor Tip: For richer flavor, maintain consistent moisture through ripening. Slightly drier conditions near harvest can improve sugar concentration, but avoid stressing the plant.
Handling
Post-Harvest Care: Handle fruits gently to prevent bruising or cracking. Store at room temperature (60–70°F / 16–21°C) and avoid refrigeration until fully ripe.
Work Area Hygiene: Clean harvest tools and trays regularly to prevent disease spread between plants.
Processing: Wash tomatoes only before use or preservation, not before storage. Damp skins invite mold growth.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh Storage: Keep at room temperature and consume within 5–7 days for best flavor.
Freezing: Core and dice ripe tomatoes, then freeze in labeled containers or freezer bags.
Canning: Ideal for juice and sauce due to its mild flavor and firm texture. Use approved acidification methods for safe water-bath canning.
Drying: Slice ¼ inch thick and dry at 125°F (52°C) until leathery. Store in airtight jars with desiccant packets.
Kitchen Use
Fresh: Excellent for sandwiches, salads, and salsa fresca where mild flavor is desired.
Cooked: Ideal for soups, sauces, and purees where smooth consistency and low seed content are preferred.
Pairings: Complements basil, oregano, garlic, and onion. Works well with lighter dishes and low-acid recipes.
Growing & Pruning Tips
Growth Habit: Determinate and compact, reaching 3–4 feet tall.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed. Remove only the lowest leaves touching the soil to reduce splash-borne disease.
Soil Care: Mulch to maintain moisture and prevent cracking. Avoid excessive nitrogen to ensure balanced growth and fruiting.
Fertilizing: After flowering begins, shift to fertilizers higher in potassium and phosphorus. Compost tea or seaweed extract once a month improves plant vigor.
Heat Management: During extended heat (above 90°F / 32°C), shade plants lightly to preserve fruit set and quality.
Container & Watering Tips
Container Size: Minimum 10–15 gallons with strong support.
Drainage: Essential—ensure multiple drain holes and use potting mix with compost and perlite.
Watering Rhythm: Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. Irregular watering causes cracking and blossom end rot.
Feeding: Fertilize lightly every 10–14 days with a diluted organic tomato feed.
Companion Planting & Pollinators
Good Companions: Basil, parsley, onions, garlic, carrots, and marigolds. These repel common pests and improve pollination activity.
Trap Crops: Nasturtiums and radishes attract aphids and flea beetles away from tomato plants.
Pollination Tip: Though self-pollinating, bee activity improves yield and uniformity of fruit set. Gentle shaking of blossoms during flowering can assist pollination in still air conditions.
Seed Saving
Selection: Save seeds from the healthiest, disease-free plants and fully ripe fruits true to type.
Fermentation Method: Scoop seeds and gel into a jar with water and allow to ferment for 2–3 days. Stir daily until a thin film forms, then rinse and dry on a clean paper or mesh screen.
Storage: Store dried seeds in airtight containers with desiccant packs in a cool, dark place.
Viability: Typically remains high for 4–6 years when stored properly.
Aphids:
Tiny green or black insects that cluster on stems and undersides of leaves, sucking sap and weakening new growth. Their honeydew can lead to sooty mold and ant infestations.
Organic Control: Wash plants with a strong jet of water every few days or spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Interplant with basil, chives, or nasturtiums to deter them, and welcome lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies which feed on aphids naturally.
Tomato Hornworms:
Large green caterpillars that can strip a plant of foliage overnight.
Organic Control: Handpick daily—an easy and effective method. Dusting leaves with BT (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) or spinosad also provides safe organic control. Companion planting dill, marigold, or borage helps repel adults that lay eggs.
Whiteflies:
Small white insects that swarm when disturbed and feed on sap, weakening plants.
Organic Control: Hang yellow sticky traps near plants and spray leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly. Strong airflow discourages them from settling.
Spider Mites:
Microscopic pests that thrive in hot, dry conditions, leaving stippled yellow leaves and fine webs.
Organic Control: Keep soil moisture steady and increase humidity by misting. A neem oil or horticultural oil spray breaks their reproductive cycle.
Cutworms & Flea Beetles:
Cutworms chew young stems at soil level; flea beetles make “shot holes” in tender leaves.
Organic Control: Use collars made from cardboard or plastic cups around seedlings for cutworms. Floating row covers early in the season protect young plants until they toughen.
Disease Issues
Blossom End Rot:
A physiological disorder caused by uneven watering or temporary calcium unavailability, not an actual disease.
Organic Prevention: Maintain consistent soil moisture and add compost or gypsum before planting for steady calcium release. Crushed eggshells are excellent long-term amendments but not a quick fix—they break down slowly over months.
Early Blight & Septoria Leaf Spot:
Fungal leaf diseases that begin as dark spots with yellow halos on lower leaves.
Organic Prevention: Prune for airflow, water at the base, and mulch to prevent soil splash. Remove infected leaves immediately. Apply copper fungicide or bio-fungicides containing Bacillus subtilis as a preventative during humid spells.
Fusarium & Verticillium Wilt:
Soilborne fungi that cause lower leaves to yellow and wilt.
Organic Prevention: Ace 55 VF is resistant to both (V and F), but rotate crops every 3–4 years, and avoid planting tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants in the same soil consecutively. Add beneficial mycorrhizae to soil for improved root resilience.
Cracking & Splitting:
Occurs when fruits swell too quickly after dry periods or heavy rain.
Organic Prevention: Keep soil evenly moist and mulch heavily with straw or compost. Harvest promptly after storms.
Sunscald:
Results from over-pruning or sudden sun exposure.
Organic Prevention: Leave some leaf cover to shade ripening fruit and avoid removing too many leaves at once.
Environmental Stresses
Heat Stress:
Temperatures above 90°F (32°C) cause flower drop and poor fruit set.
Organic Prevention: Provide 30–40% shade cloth during extreme heat and water deeply in early morning.
Nutrient Imbalance:
Too much nitrogen results in vigorous vines but poor fruiting.
Organic Prevention: Feed early with composted manure or balanced organic fertilizer (4-4-6), then switch to a tomato-specific formula higher in phosphorus and potassium once flowering begins.
Proactive Organic Measures
Rotate crops every 3–4 years and add compost annually to build soil life.
Use deep mulch (2–3 inches of straw, leaves, or compost) to stabilize moisture and prevent disease splash.
Clean pruning tools with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide between plants to avoid spreading infection.
Interplant with basil, marigold, garlic, or parsley to deter pests and attract pollinators.
Spray compost tea or seaweed extract monthly to strengthen plant immunity and leaf vigor.
Q: What makes Ace 55 VF different from other tomatoes?
Ace 55 VF was bred in the 1950s for gardeners wanting a tomato with both classic flavor and strong disease resistance. It’s a determinate variety that produces smooth, uniform red fruits with resistance to Verticillium and Fusarium wilts (V & F). Its mild, low-acid flavor and meaty texture make it ideal for canning, juicing, and fresh slicing.
Q: How long does it take to mature?
Fruits typically mature in 80–89 days from transplant. Plants set a concentrated flush of tomatoes that ripen within a few weeks—ideal for batch processing and preserving.
Q: How long does germination take?
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days when soil is kept between 75–85°F (24–29°C) with steady moisture. Cooler temperatures will delay sprouting.
Q: What soil conditions does Ace 55 VF prefer?
This variety thrives in well-drained loam rich in compost or aged manure, with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Good drainage is essential to prevent disease. Mix in compost or worm castings to improve structure and nutrient availability.
Q: How far apart should plants be spaced?
Space plants 24–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart. Though compact, the plants need airflow to reduce disease pressure and support heavy fruit clusters.
Q: Does Ace 55 VF require staking or cages?
Yes. Even though it’s a determinate (bush-type) tomato, staking or caging helps support the weight of ripening fruit and keeps them off the soil for cleaner, healthier harvests.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
Provide 6–8+ hours of full sun daily for best yield, flavor, and uniform ripening. Shadier spots may reduce fruit production and sweetness.
Q: What are the best watering practices?
Water deeply, providing about 1–1½ inches per week. Maintain consistent moisture—avoid long dry periods followed by heavy soaking, which can cause cracking or blossom end rot. Mulch with straw or compost to keep roots cool and soil evenly moist.
Q: What kind of fertilizer works best?
Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer (4-4-6) during early growth, then switch to low-nitrogen, high-potassium (3-5-7) once flowers appear. Compost tea, liquid kelp, or bone meal support strong fruiting and flavor development.
Q: Is Ace 55 VF good for container growing?
Yes. Choose containers 10 gallons or larger, with high-quality potting mix and good drainage. Cage or stake plants early, and check soil moisture daily during hot weather.
Q: What are common pests and how can they be controlled organically?
Watch for aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies. Use neem oil, BT (Bacillus thuringiensis), or insecticidal soap for control. Encourage ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps by interplanting basil, marigold, and dill.
Q: What diseases is Ace 55 VF resistant to?
It’s resistant to Verticillium (V) and Fusarium (F) wilt. However, you should still rotate crops and maintain clean soil practices to prevent early blight or leaf spot.
Q: What causes blossom end rot and how can I prevent it?
Blossom end rot results from uneven watering or temporary calcium unavailability. Add compost, gypsum, or finely ground eggshells before planting for long-term calcium support, and keep soil evenly moist. Crushed eggshells decompose slowly—they’re best added months before planting.
Q: Can I save seeds from Ace 55 VF?
Yes. Ace 55 VF is open-pollinated. Save seeds from ripe, healthy fruit. Ferment seeds in water for 2–3 days, rinse clean, and dry thoroughly for 7–10 days. Store in a cool, dark place—seeds remain viable for 4–6 years.
Q: How should I harvest and store the fruits?
Pick when fully red and firm, using pruning shears or by gently twisting the fruit. Store at room temperature until ripe; refrigeration dulls flavor and texture. For long-term storage, blanch and freeze or can using safe preservation methods.
Q: Can I grow Ace 55 VF alongside other tomatoes?
Yes. Cross-pollination is rare in tomatoes, but if you plan to save pure seed, keep at least 25–50 feet between varieties or bag blossoms.
History & Culture – Ace 55 VF Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
The tomato’s story begins in the Andean region of South America, where Indigenous peoples first domesticated wild Solanum species several thousand years ago. These early farmers in what is now Peru, Ecuador, and northern Chile selected plants for fruit size, color, and reliability within diverse climates. From there, tomatoes spread north through Indigenous trade networks into Mesoamerica, where the Nahua and Maya further cultivated and named them. Within the milpa system—a rotation of maize, beans, and squash—tomatoes were an integral component, adding nutritional diversity and functioning as part of a balanced agroecological system.
By the 16th century, the tomato was already a well-established food crop in Indigenous agriculture when Europeans encountered it. Following colonization, it was carried across the Atlantic, and after centuries of cultivation and adaptation, reintroduced to North America through global trade and seed exchange.
In the United States, serious tomato breeding began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as growers sought improved productivity and resistance to disease. By the mid-1900s, university and private breeders focused on varieties suitable for commercial production and home gardens in humid regions.
The Ace 55 Tomato was developed in California in the 1950s by plant breeder Dr. M.C. Pybas. It was created to meet the need for a tomato with thicker skin, uniform fruiting, and lower acidity, making it suitable for canning and fresh market use. The improved strain, Ace 55 VF, added resistance to Verticillium wilt (V) and Fusarium wilt (F)—two of the most destructive soil-borne fungal diseases in tomatoes.
Ace 55 VF became popular with both home gardeners and small market growers for its reliability, consistent yields, and clean fruit set. While modern hybrids later replaced many open-pollinated types in commercial production, Ace 55 VF remained a preferred choice for those who value stability, ease of growth, and predictable results under a wide range of soil and climate conditions.
Its continued use reflects a practical lineage of breeding: a variety developed during a period of agricultural transition, when disease resistance and field performance became essential to maintain productive local food systems.
Saving seeds from Ace 55 VF Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum):
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:
Choose healthy plants with vigorous growth and abundant, well-formed fruits.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:
Timing: Allow the tomatoes to ripen fully on the plant until they are soft.
Collection: Harvest the ripe tomatoes and cut them open to remove the seeds.
3. Cleaning Seeds:
Separation: Place the seeds and their gel in a container of water. Let them ferment for 2-3 days, stirring daily to separate the seeds from the gel.
Inspection: Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any remaining gel and inspect for cleanliness and freedom from mold or pests.
4. Drying Seeds:
Place the cleaned seeds on a paper towel or screen in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
5. Storing Seeds:
Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within four to six years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:
Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:
Isolation: Maintain distance between different tomato varieties to prevent cross-pollination.
Pollinators: Tomatoes are primarily self-pollinating, but encouraging pollinators can still be beneficial.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Slicing & Table Use (signature):
Medium, uniform fruits with firm flesh and balanced mild flavor make excellent slices for sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Texture holds well under dressing or heat, preventing collapse common in juicier heirlooms.
Canning & Sauce Base:
Dense, low-moisture flesh yields consistent sauces and juices without long boil times. Its lower acidity produces a rounder flavor that benefits from a small addition of lemon juice or vinegar during canning for balance and preservation safety.
Juice & Puree Production:
Presses cleanly through strainers with minimal seed residue. Ideal for juice blends or smooth tomato bases for soups and pasta sauces.
Roasting & Grilling:
Thick skin tolerates high heat—roast halves or slices to deepen sweetness and concentrate sugars. Caramelized skins blend easily into sauces for added body.
Freezing & Meal Prep:
Holds structure after thawing; blanch, core, and freeze whole or diced for off-season use.
Flavor Notes & Pairings:
Mild and slightly sweet, ideal for recipes where tomatoes complement rather than dominate—pairs well with garlic, basil, thyme, olive oil, poultry, and mild cheeses.
Preservation & Storage Value
Canning Stability: Firm texture resists bursting under high heat, producing clear, consistent jars.
Drying: Meaty slices dry evenly into leathery chips or powderable flakes for soups and spice blends.
Freezer Utility: Retains integrity for cooked dishes; no blanching required if peeled post-thaw.
Shelf Life: Thick skin and firm flesh extend post-harvest holding time and reduce splitting during transport.
Nutritional Benefits
Naturally low in acidity compared to traditional heirlooms—well tolerated by those with mild acid sensitivity.
Provides vitamin C, potassium, beta-carotene, and lycopene, supporting immune and cardiovascular health.
Lower water content concentrates nutrients per serving, improving flavor density in processed foods.
Garden & Production Benefits
Determinate Growth:
Compact 3–4 ft plants produce a concentrated harvest—ideal for small gardens or coordinated canning schedules.
Disease Resistance:
Built-in protection against Verticillium (V) and Fusarium (F) wilt reduces crop loss and soil fatigue in humid or previously infected plots.
Reliability:
Uniform fruit set, strong skins, and consistent size make Ace 55 VF dependable for both market and home production.
Adaptability:
Performs well in open fields, raised beds, or large containers. Handles humidity better than many heirlooms without cracking.
Seed Stewardship:
An open-pollinated variety—true to type if isolated from other tomatoes—allowing annual seed saving for regional adaptation.
Cultural & Practical Relevance
Ace 55 VF represents mid-century American plant improvement grounded in practicality: reliable yields, manageable plant size, and disease resistance. It bridges historical open-pollinated breeding with modern organic growing needs—durable, steady, and efficient without reliance on hybrids or chemicals.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
Triple tested
We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
Soil Readiness
for Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum)
Where to get a soil test
Best option: your state’s Cooperative Extension soil testing lab.
Tip: Arid/alkaline regions (e.g., AZ, NM, UT, parts of CA) often use Olsen (bicarbonate) for phosphorus.
Interprets P by extractant; assumes ppm. Results are approximate.
Enter at least one value above, then Calculate.
Summary
Recommended Amendments (per 100 sq ft)
How to Use
Mix P & K sources into top 3–6″ a week or two before planting.
If pH is low, apply lime 3–4 weeks pre-plant (or fall/winter).
Side-dress tomatoes with ~0.1 lb N / 100 sq ft at first fruit set; a light second side-dress after heavy early harvest is optional.
Keep soil evenly moist and mulch to help prevent blossom-end rot (a Ca/moisture issue).
Add 1–2″ finished compost yearly to build organic matter.
Container mix? Use a peat/coco-based mix with compost and slow-release organic fertilizer; pH is usually already correct.
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Developed in the 1950s for gardeners seeking both flavor and resilience, Ace 55 VF Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) stands as a hallmark of dependable, homegrown quality. Unlike many modern hybrids, it retains the round, uniform beauty and mild, balanced flavor that made it a mainstay of family gardens and roadside stands for decades.
Fruits average 6–8 ounces, with smooth, firm skin and a thick, meaty interior that resists cracking and bruising—perfect for slicing, canning, or shipping. The flavor is low in acidity yet full-bodied, making it ideal for those who prefer a milder tomato that still delivers the richness of a true garden variety.
Plants are determinate and vigorous, reaching about 3–4 feet in height and producing heavy, concentrated yields over several weeks. Bred with V (Verticillium) and F (Fusarium) wilt resistance, Ace 55 VF remains one of the most reliable choices for growers in humid or disease-prone climates. Fruits ripen in 75–80 days, holding well on the vine and after harvest.
A favorite among market growers, home canners, and gardeners who value uniform, blemish-free fruit, Ace 55 VF bridges the gap between heirloom flavor and practical durability.
A true American classic—sturdy, productive, and sweetly understated, embodying the spirit of mid-century seed innovation and backyard abundance.
The taste is great and the tomato is yellow in color 1-2 lb tomatoes.
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