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
The Nepal Heirloom Tomato is an indeterminate mountain variety renowned for its resilience, productivity, and full-bodied flavor, originally cultivated in the foothills of the Himalayas where cool nights and strong sunlight shaped its exceptional balance of sweetness and acidity. Maturing in about 75–80 days, it produces large, 10–12 ounce deep red fruits with smooth, slightly flattened shoulders and thick, meaty interiors.
The flavor is robust and complex, offering the classic richness of old-world heirlooms with a clean, lingering sweetness that holds up beautifully in fresh slicing, canning, and cooking. Its dense texture and uniform flesh make it a versatile choice for both kitchen and market use.
Plants are vigorous and weather-tolerant, growing 6–8 feet tall and continuing to fruit steadily even during temperature swings or late-season cooldowns. They thrive in full sun, fertile, well-drained soil, and benefit from regular deep watering to maintain even fruit development and prevent cracking.
Introduced to North America by travelers in the mid-20th century, the Nepal Heirloom Tomato remains a gardener’s favorite for its dependable yields, disease tolerance, and mountain-born flavor—proving that a truly great tomato can thrive where few others dare.
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Soil pH
6.0–6.5
Soil Type
Loamy
Sunlight
Full sun
Row Spacing
36 in
Ideal Soil Temp
70–85°F
Seed Depth
1/4 in
Sprouts in
7-14 Day
Life Cycle
Annual
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
Choosing the Right Location:
Light Requirements: Tomato - Nepal thrives in full sun. Select a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Although adaptable to various soil types, it grows best in loamy soil enriched with organic matter.
Planting Seeds:
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
Spacing: Thin seedlings to 24-36 inches apart when transplanting to allow adequate space for growth. Rows should be spaced about 36-48 inches apart.
Watering:
Initial Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Ongoing Watering: Once established, water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Temperature and Climate:
Preferred Temperature: Tomato - Nepal grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures but may require more frequent watering during extreme heat.
Fertilization:
Feeding: Incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil before planting. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with compost or organic fertilizer mid-season.
Pruning and Thinning:
Thinning: Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, which can hinder growth and reduce air circulation.
Pruning: Prune suckers (the small shoots that grow between the stem and branches) to promote larger fruit production. Stake or cage plants to support the heavy vines and improve air circulation.
Mulching:
Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Avoid piling mulch directly against the stems to prevent rot.
Pest and Disease Management:
Common Pests: Tomatoes can attract pests such as aphids, tomato hornworms, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests if necessary.
Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases such as blight and powdery mildew. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of mildew and other fungal issues. Crop rotation and proper spacing can also help reduce disease incidence.
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Harvesting:
Harvest when fruits turn a deep, uniform red with a glossy surface and slight give under gentle pressure near the stem. Nepal produces medium to large, globe-shaped fruits averaging 8–12 ounces, known for their dense flesh and low seed content.
Use pruning shears or scissors to harvest cleanly, leaving a short section of stem attached to prevent tearing. Avoid pulling or twisting fruit by hand, as this can bruise shoulders or cause stem damage.
Harvest every two to three days during peak production to encourage continuous flowering and fruiting. Avoid picking after rain or irrigation, as excess moisture may cause cracking. For slightly underripe fruits, allow ripening indoors at 68–72°F (20–22°C) away from direct sunlight to preserve their rich, balanced flavor.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Nepal Heirloom is a classic red slicer celebrated for its deep, traditional tomato flavor — a rich balance of sweetness and acidity with a clean, savory finish. Its meaty texture and concentrated juice content make it ideal for both fresh eating and cooking.
Excellent for sandwiches, salads, or fresh slicing, where its consistency and full-bodied flavor shine. When cooked, Nepal develops a velvety texture and deep, savory-sweet undertone, making it perfect for sauces, soups, and roasted dishes.
Because it resists wateriness even when ripe, Nepal is also a superb canning variety — it holds its structure well in jars and maintains color during processing.
Handling & Storage:
Store harvested fruit at 55–70°F (13–21°C) in a cool, ventilated area. Avoid refrigeration, which mutes sweetness and can cause mealy texture.
Arrange in a single layer, stem-side down, on paper or cloth-lined trays to reduce bruising and promote airflow. Do not stack deeply.
Harvest just shy of full ripeness for longer storage or transport. Fruits will continue to ripen evenly at room temperature. When handled gently, Nepal tomatoes retain peak flavor and firmness for up to a week.
Pruning & Support:
As an indeterminate vine, Nepal benefits from steady pruning and durable support. Provide strong cages, stakes, or trellises reaching 6–8 feet to support continuous vertical growth.
Remove lower leaves after the plant is well established to improve airflow and reduce soil-borne disease. Lightly prune suckers below the first flower cluster to focus energy on main fruiting stems.
Avoid heavy pruning that exposes fruit to intense sunlight, which can cause sunscald. Maintain a moderately dense canopy to shade ripening fruits while ensuring good ventilation through the foliage.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for full sugar development and vivid coloration. In regions with high heat, light afternoon shade may prevent softening or cracking.
Maintain consistent soil moisture by watering deeply once or twice per week. Uneven watering may lead to blossom-end rot or skin splitting. Apply mulch — straw, compost, or shredded leaves — once the soil warms to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep foliage dry and supply consistent hydration at the root zone. Good water management and airflow are essential for maintaining fruit quality and disease resistance.
Seed Saving:
Select seed from the healthiest, most vigorous plants producing uniform, true-to-type fruits with balanced flavor. Allow fruit to fully ripen on the vine for mature, viable seed.
Scoop seeds and pulp into a small jar with a little water and ferment for 2–3 days to break down the gelatinous seed coat. Stir daily to prevent mold. Rinse thoroughly and spread seeds thinly on a non-stick surface or fine mesh to dry for 7–10 days in shade with good ventilation.
Store fully dried seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry environment. Properly dried Nepal Heirloom seeds remain viable for 4–6 years. As an open-pollinated type, they will breed true unless cross-pollinated by nearby tomatoes. Maintain 25–50 feet of spacing or use pollination mesh to ensure purity.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Nepal thrives in biologically active soils and pollinator-rich environments. Its open flowers are highly attractive to bumblebees and native bees, which enhance fruit set through vibration pollination.
Interplant with nectar-rich herbs like borage, alyssum, and basil to attract pollinators and beneficial insects. Rotate tomato crops every two to three years with legumes or leafy greens to replenish nitrogen and prevent soil-borne disease.
Avoid planting near peppers, potatoes, or eggplants, which share pests and pathogens. Maintain 30–36 inches of spacing between plants for good airflow and sunlight penetration. Annual compost application supports strong microbial networks and soil fertility.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
Nepal’s robust flavor and dense flesh lend themselves beautifully to both rustic and refined dishes. Slice thick for sandwiches or layer with mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze for a simple caprese presentation.
Roast with olive oil, thyme, and garlic for a caramelized flavor perfect for sauces or flatbreads. Its bright acidity complements creamy cheeses, grilled vegetables, and rich meats.
For display or plating, pair Nepal’s vibrant red hue with yellow or dark heirloom types for striking visual contrast. Its uniform shape and smooth skin make it equally attractive in fresh market displays and garden baskets.
Common Pests & Problems — 'Nepal Heirloom' Standard (Solanum lycopersicum)
Insects & Mites
Tomato Hornworms (large caterpillars, heavy foliage damage and fruit chewing)
Controls: Check plants in early morning and evening when hornworms are more visible. Handpick and destroy them immediately. Encourage natural predators like parasitic wasps (Cotesia congregata). Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) late in the day to target young larvae. Keep the garden perimeter free of weeds to deter adult moths from laying eggs.
Aphids (leaf curling, sticky honeydew, and yellowing)
Controls: Use yellow sticky traps to detect early infestations. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days, covering both sides of the leaves. Encourage beneficial insects like lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies by planting yarrow, dill, and alyssum nearby. Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizers, which promote tender, aphid-prone growth.
Whiteflies (leaf yellowing, honeydew buildup, sooty mold)
Controls: Deploy yellow sticky traps around plants to reduce adult populations. Spray neem oil or horticultural soap weekly during outbreaks. Introduce Encarsia formosa wasps for biological control. Maintain airflow by pruning lower leaves and keeping the area weed-free.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, stippling, and bronzing of leaves during dry conditions)
Controls: Increase humidity and maintain even soil moisture to prevent outbreaks. Spray leaves with water to remove mites. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until infestation subsides. Avoid drought stress and dusty environments that favor mites.
Diseases
Early Blight (Alternaria solani) (dark concentric leaf spots and stem lesions)
Controls: Rotate crops every 2–3 years and avoid planting tomatoes near other Solanaceae crops. Apply copper-based fungicides preventively in humid conditions. Water at the soil level and prune lower leaves to improve airflow. Remove and destroy affected foliage.
Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) (yellowing and wilting starting from lower leaves)
Controls: Solarize soil before planting to suppress fungal spores. Grow resistant cultivars if available. Maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove infected plants promptly and sanitize tools to prevent further spread.
Septoria Leaf Spot (Septoria lycopersici) (small gray spots, lower leaf yellowing and drop)
Controls: Maintain mulch to prevent soil splash. Apply copper fungicide during wet periods as a preventive. Prune lower foliage to promote airflow and remove any infected leaves as soon as spotted. Avoid overhead watering.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Blossom End Rot (calcium deficiency, dark sunken spots on fruit)
Controls: Maintain consistent watering and even soil moisture. Mulch to prevent rapid drying. Test soil calcium levels and amend with lime or gypsum if necessary. Avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers that hinder calcium uptake.
Cracking (uneven watering or sudden heavy rain)
Controls: Maintain regular watering schedules and avoid large fluctuations in soil moisture. Mulch heavily to regulate hydration and temperature. Harvest fruit promptly after rainfall to prevent cracking.
Sunscald (white or papery patches on fruit from sun exposure)
Controls: Maintain adequate leaf canopy for shading fruit. Avoid over-pruning and provide partial shade with 20–30% shade cloth during extreme heat. Keep plants well-hydrated to prevent leaf loss that exposes fruit.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants at least twice weekly for hornworms, aphids, and early blight signs.
Rotate tomato crops every season to avoid recurring soilborne pathogens.
Maintain thick mulch to prevent soil splash and conserve moisture.
Water at the base of plants to keep leaves dry.
Prune lower leaves to improve airflow while preserving canopy shade.
Encourage beneficial insects through companion plant diversity.
Remove diseased foliage immediately and sanitize stakes and tools after each use.
Q: What type of tomato is Nepal Heirloom?
Nepal Heirloom is an indeterminate, open-pollinated slicing tomato known for its resilience and exceptional balance of flavor. The plants produce large, round red fruits averaging 10–12 ounces, with dense, meaty flesh and a bright, classic tomato taste. Originating in the Himalayan foothills of Nepal, this variety was preserved by high-altitude farmers for its tolerance to cooler conditions and late-season productivity.
Q: How long does Nepal Heirloom take to mature?
Expect 78–85 days from transplant to ripe fruit. It’s a dependable mid-to-late season tomato well-suited for both greenhouse and field production.
Q: How long does it take for Nepal Heirloom seeds to germinate?
Seeds germinate in 6–10 days at 75–90°F (24–32°C) when kept evenly moist and warm. Germination may slow under cooler conditions.
Q: Does Nepal Heirloom need special soil conditions?
It prefers rich, loamy, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Amending with compost or worm castings enhances fruit flavor and soil fertility.
Q: What spacing do Nepal Heirloom tomatoes need?
Space plants 24–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart. Use sturdy cages or trellises to support vigorous vines and heavy fruit loads.
Q: Do I need more than one plant for pollination?
No. Nepal Heirloom tomatoes are self-pollinating, though pollinator visits or light shaking of blossoms can improve yields.
Q: Can I grow Nepal Heirloom in containers?
Yes — use a minimum 10–15 gallon container filled with high-quality potting soil and provide tall support. Regular watering and balanced feeding are essential for large-fruited varieties.
Q: How tall do Nepal Heirloom plants get?
Plants typically reach 5–7 feet when supported. Prune lower foliage to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk.
Q: Why are my Nepal Heirloom tomatoes cracking?
Cracking occurs when watering is inconsistent or when rainfall follows a dry spell. Maintain steady moisture and mulch heavily to stabilize soil conditions.
Q: How should I harvest Nepal Heirloom tomatoes?
Harvest when fruits turn deep red and feel slightly soft to the touch. Avoid waiting for over-ripening, as cracks can develop in late maturity.
Q: How do I store Nepal Heirloom tomatoes after harvest?
Store at 55–70°F (13–21°C) in a single layer, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate unless fruits are overripe.
Q: Are Nepal Heirloom tomatoes good for cooking?
Yes. They are superb for slicing, roasting, and sauce-making, offering a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. Their thick flesh holds texture well in heat.
Q: Are Nepal Heirloom tomatoes heirloom?
Yes — this is a true heirloom from Nepal, preserved by generations of farmers and introduced to global seed exchanges for its exceptional flavor and adaptability.
Q: Why are my fruits smaller than expected?
Smaller fruit often results from heat stress, nutrient imbalance, or inadequate watering. Consistent care and balanced feeding restore full fruit size.
Q: Can I save seeds from Nepal Heirloom?
Yes. As an open-pollinated variety, it will grow true to type. Select ripe fruits, ferment seeds in water for 2–3 days, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before storing.
Tomato Seeds - Indeterminate - Nepal Heirloom Standard
$100 USD
$200
Unit price /
Unavailable
History & Culture — Nepal Heirloom Standard Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Tomatoes are one of the greatest agricultural gifts of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas. Long before European contact, Indigenous farmers of western South America and Mesoamerica had already domesticated wild Solanum species, transforming them from small, sour berries into richly flavored, productive crops. Grown in raised fields and terraced gardens, tomatoes became part of a vibrant food system alongside maize, beans, and chili peppers — a living agricultural science that continues among Indigenous growers today.
When tomato seeds traveled across the Atlantic in the 1500s, they carried that legacy with them. European growers, first skeptical, gradually embraced the fruit, refining new forms in Italy, France, and Spain. Yet every variety, from the smallest cherry to the densest paste tomato, still descends from those early Indigenous selections.
The Nepal Tomato is a classic red heirloom celebrated for its adaptability, flavor, and high-altitude resilience. Though the tomato itself is an Indigenous crop of the Americas, the Nepal variety reflects its remarkable global journey — traveling across continents to take root in Himalayan soils, where farmers selected and preserved it for vigor and productivity in cooler mountain climates. Its balanced sweetness and firmness made it a favorite both for market sales and home use.
Introduced to Western growers in the late 20th century, Nepal became a symbol of how Indigenous agricultural legacies could adapt to nearly any corner of the world. The variety’s success in both hot and cool environments mirrors the adaptability that allowed tomatoes to flourish far from their original homeland, carried through generations of seed savers and gardeners across cultures.
In today’s gardens, the Nepal Heirloom Standard Tomato represents a global expression of an Indigenous gift — an American-born crop, refined through centuries of human partnership, that now feeds families from the Andes to the Himalayas. Each fruit reminds us that the seed knows no borders; it simply follows those who care for it.
Saving seeds from Nepal 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.
Uses and Benefits:
Nepal Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is known for its medium-sized, red fruits with a rich flavor. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and sauces.
Tomatoes provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health. Nepal Tomatoes are versatile in culinary applications, adding flavor and juiciness to dishes.
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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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Tomato Seeds - Indeterminate - Nepal Heirloom Standard
$100 USD
$200
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
The Nepal Heirloom Tomato is an indeterminate mountain variety renowned for its resilience, productivity, and full-bodied flavor, originally cultivated in the foothills of the Himalayas where cool nights and strong sunlight shaped its exceptional balance of sweetness and acidity. Maturing in about 75–80 days, it produces large, 10–12 ounce deep red fruits with smooth, slightly flattened shoulders and thick, meaty interiors.
The flavor is robust and complex, offering the classic richness of old-world heirlooms with a clean, lingering sweetness that holds up beautifully in fresh slicing, canning, and cooking. Its dense texture and uniform flesh make it a versatile choice for both kitchen and market use.
Plants are vigorous and weather-tolerant, growing 6–8 feet tall and continuing to fruit steadily even during temperature swings or late-season cooldowns. They thrive in full sun, fertile, well-drained soil, and benefit from regular deep watering to maintain even fruit development and prevent cracking.
Introduced to North America by travelers in the mid-20th century, the Nepal Heirloom Tomato remains a gardener’s favorite for its dependable yields, disease tolerance, and mountain-born flavor—proving that a truly great tomato can thrive where few others dare.
