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 Mortgage Lifter Tomato is a legendary American heirloom bred in the 1930s by Radiator Charlie Byles, who famously sold enough of these plants to pay off his mortgage—hence its name. This indeterminate variety produces huge, 1–2 pound fruits with a rich pink-red color, meaty texture, and minimal seeds, making it ideal for slicing and sandwiches.
Maturing in about 80–85 days, the fruit offers a deep, old-fashioned tomato flavor—balanced between sweetness and acidity with a dense, juicy flesh that holds up in salads, sauces, and canning. Its size and reliability have made it a mainstay among heirloom growers and market gardeners for nearly a century.
Plants are vigorous and heavy-bearing, growing 6–8 feet tall with strong stems that benefit from sturdy staking or caging. They thrive in full sun and nutrient-rich, well-drained soil, producing consistently even in long, hot summers. The Mortgage Lifter remains a testament to classic seed stewardship and the power of one gardener’s dedication to quality and flavor.
Light Requirements: Tomato - Mortgage Lifter 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 - Mortgage Lifter grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C). It can tolerate higher 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.
How to Grow – Mortgage Lifter Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Watering
Provide 1–1½ inches of water weekly, increasing slightly during dry or fruit-heavy periods.
Water deeply and evenly to encourage strong roots and prevent cracking.
Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses for consistent moisture at soil level while keeping foliage dry.
Avoid overhead watering, especially late in the day, to minimize fungal disease.
Mulch 2–3 inches deep with straw, compost, or shredded leaves once soil warms to stabilize temperature and moisture.
Tip: Steady watering keeps Mortgage Lifter’s giant fruits smooth and firm—fluctuations cause cracking and uneven ripening.
Fertilizing
Before planting, work 2–3 inches of compost or aged manure into the soil.
Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer (10-10-10 or equivalent) during early growth.
Once flowering begins, switch to a low-nitrogen, high-potassium blend (5-10-10) to promote large, flavorful fruit development.
Supplement with calcium or kelp extract monthly to prevent blossom end rot and strengthen stems.
Avoid overfertilizing—excess nitrogen encourages heavy foliage and poor fruit set.
Tip: A light midseason application of compost tea or seaweed extract helps sustain heavy fruit loads through peak summer.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep the area around plants weed-free to reduce competition and pest harborage.
Apply 2–4 inches of organic mulch—straw, compost, or shredded leaves—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
When weeding, loosen soil gently near the plant base to avoid root disturbance.
Sun & Heat Management
Provide full sunlight—6–8 hours daily ensures full coloration and maximum sweetness.
Ideal air temperature range: 75–90°F (24–32°C).
In extreme heat (above 95°F or 35°C), use 30–40% shade cloth to prevent flower drop and fruit scald.
Maintain adequate airflow between plants to minimize humidity and prevent fungal issues.
Tip: Mortgage Lifter thrives in warmth but prefers steady temperatures—avoid extremes for the best yields.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 30–36 inches apart with 36–48 inches between rows.
Being an indeterminate beefsteak, this variety requires sturdy cages, trellises, or stakes to support heavy fruit clusters.
Train vines vertically to promote airflow and ease of harvest.
Remove lower leaves beneath the first flower cluster to reduce disease risk.
Tip: Heavy fruits may need sling supports or soft ties beneath clusters to prevent stem breakage.
Companion Planting
Good Companions: Basil, marigolds, onions, garlic, parsley, and carrots deter pests and enhance pollination.
Avoid: Fennel, corn, and brassicas that compete for nutrients or harbor pests.
Interplant with dill, coriander, or thyme to attract beneficial insects and pollinators.
Tip: Basil planted near Mortgage Lifter not only repels pests but also enhances flavor naturally.
Container Growing
Grow in extra-large containers (minimum 25 gallons) with a heavy-duty trellis or cage.
Use rich organic potting soil blended with compost and perlite for structure and drainage.
Check moisture daily—large plants draw water quickly.
Feed every 10–14 days with compost tea or a liquid tomato fertilizer for steady nutrition.
Tip: Container-grown plants produce fewer but earlier fruits—maintain consistent watering to avoid stress cracks.
Season Extension
Use row covers or low tunnels early in the season to protect transplants from cool nights.
Preheat soil with black plastic mulch before transplanting in cooler climates.
Remove new blossoms about 4 weeks before the first frost to direct energy toward ripening existing fruit.
Harvest nearly ripe fruits before frost—they will finish ripening indoors at 65–70°F (18–21°C).
Tip: Mortgage Lifter fruits continue ripening beautifully off the vine—store them stem-side down in a single layer for best results.
Harvesting:
Harvest when fruits reach full rosy-red coloration with slightly pink undertones and smooth, heavy shoulders. Mature fruits typically weigh 16–32 ounces, with some exceeding two pounds under optimal conditions. The skin should feel firm yet slightly yielding when pressed near the stem.
Use pruning shears or scissors to harvest cleanly, leaving a short stem section attached to prevent tearing. Avoid twisting fruit off the vine, as the stems are thick and can damage the calyx.
Pick every two to three days during ripening to prevent overripe fruit from cracking or splitting under its own weight. Avoid harvesting directly after rain or watering — high moisture can cause shoulder cracking. Slightly underripe fruits will ripen evenly indoors at 68–72°F (20–22°C), retaining their full sweetness and texture.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Mortgage Lifter is famous for its rich, old-fashioned tomato flavor — meaty, sweet, and mildly tangy with deep, satisfying umami. Its dense texture and small seed cavities make it one of the most flavorful and substantial beefsteaks ever bred.
Perfect for thick slicing on sandwiches, burgers, and caprese salads. When cooked, the flesh softens into a velvety sauce base with a natural sweetness that needs little added sugar.
This variety’s balanced acidity also makes it ideal for canning and slow-simmered sauces, where it retains both texture and color. Its flavor deepens beautifully when roasted, developing a caramel-like richness that pairs well with herbs and roasted garlic.
Handling & Storage:
Store harvested fruits at 55–70°F (13–21°C) in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid refrigeration, which dulls sweetness and causes mealy texture.
Because of the large fruit size and thin skin, handle gently to prevent bruising. Place fruits in a single layer, stem-side down, on padded or paper-lined trays. Avoid stacking or overcrowding.
Harvest slightly before full ripeness for market or transport to reduce cracking and extend shelf life. When properly handled, Mortgage Lifter tomatoes retain prime flavor and texture for up to a week.
Pruning & Support:
As an indeterminate, vigorous grower, Mortgage Lifter requires heavy-duty support and consistent pruning. Provide sturdy trellises, cages, or stakes at least 7–8 feet high to support its long vines and heavy fruit clusters.
Remove lower leaves after the plant establishes to improve airflow and reduce soil-borne disease risk. Pinch small suckers below the first flower cluster to channel energy into primary stems and larger fruit.
Avoid excessive pruning, as foliage helps shade the large fruit and prevents sunscald. Tie or clip clusters as they develop — mature fruits can strain stems if unsupported.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for rich color and maximum sugar accumulation. In high-heat climates, light afternoon shade helps prevent cracking and softening.
Maintain consistent soil moisture through deep watering once or twice weekly. Irregular watering during ripening can cause cracking or blossom-end rot.
Apply mulch (straw, compost, or shredded leaves) once soil warms to retain moisture, stabilize temperature, and suppress weeds.
Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water at the root zone while keeping leaves dry, reducing risk of foliar diseases like blight and septoria leaf spot.
Seed Saving:
Select seed from healthy, true-to-type plants bearing large, uniform pink-red fruits with balanced sweetness. Allow chosen fruits to ripen fully on the vine for mature seed development.
Scoop seeds and gel into a jar with a small amount of water and ferment for 2–3 days, stirring daily to dissolve the gelatinous coating. Rinse thoroughly and spread seeds thinly on a non-stick surface or mesh to dry for 7–10 days in a shaded, ventilated space.
Store fully dried seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry environment. Properly cured Mortgage Lifter seeds remain viable for 4–6 years. Being open-pollinated, they will breed true unless cross-pollinated by nearby tomato varieties; isolate by 25–50 feet or use mesh covers for seed purity.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Mortgage Lifter thrives in gardens emphasizing soil fertility and biodiversity. Its large blossoms attract bumblebees and native pollinators that enhance fruit set through vibration pollination.
Interplant with flowering herbs such as basil, borage, and calendula to sustain beneficial insect populations and promote balanced garden ecology. Rotate tomato crops every 2–3 years with legumes or leafy greens to replenish nitrogen and prevent disease buildup.
Avoid planting near peppers, potatoes, or eggplants, which share pest and pathogen pressures. Maintain 36 inches of spacing between plants to ensure airflow and sunlight penetration. Add compost annually to improve microbial health and root development.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
Mortgage Lifter’s flavor is bold yet refined, lending itself equally to homestyle cooking and fine cuisine. Slice thickly for sandwiches, stack with mozzarella and basil, or grill for smoky, savory-sweet depth.
Roast halved fruits with olive oil and herbs for a caramelized sauce base, or simmer with onion and garlic for a traditional marinara. Its natural sweetness also complements aged cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread.
For visual presentation, showcase its massive size and pink-red hue alongside golden or purple heirlooms for stunning contrast in market displays or culinary plating. Its name and story add nostalgic charm to seed racks and menus alike.
Common Pests & Problems — 'Mortgage Lifter' Beefsteak (Solanum lycopersicum)
Insects & Mites
Tomato Hornworms (large caterpillars, defoliation, and fruit chewing)
Controls: Handpick hornworms in early morning or evening when they are most visible. Encourage parasitic wasps (Cotesia congregata) to establish in the garden for biological control. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in late afternoon, ensuring full foliage coverage. Keep surrounding weeds trimmed to remove alternate host plants for adult moths.
Aphids (leaf curling, sticky honeydew, and reduced vigor)
Controls: Place yellow sticky traps to detect early infestations. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until aphids are controlled. Attract natural predators like lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies by interplanting dill, fennel, and yarrow. Avoid high nitrogen fertilization that promotes soft, aphid-prone growth.
Whiteflies (yellowing leaves, honeydew, and black sooty mold)
Controls: Deploy yellow sticky traps near plants to reduce adult populations. Apply neem oil or horticultural soap on a 5–7 day schedule until populations subside. Introduce Encarsia formosa wasps for biological control. Keep lower leaves pruned for airflow and manage weeds to eliminate whitefly hosts.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, stippled leaves, and bronzing)
Controls: Increase humidity and mist plants to discourage mites. Hose leaves gently to remove mites and debris. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap weekly until infestations are reduced. Avoid plant stress and maintain consistent watering.
Diseases
Early Blight (Alternaria solani) (dark concentric spots on leaves and stems)
Controls: Rotate crops yearly and avoid planting tomatoes in the same soil as other Solanaceae. Apply copper-based fungicides at first appearance of symptoms. Water plants at the base to keep leaves dry. Prune lower foliage and remove infected leaves promptly.
Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) (yellowing, wilting, and one-sided dieback)
Controls: Solarize soil before planting to reduce fungal populations. Grow resistant varieties when available. Maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove infected plants promptly and disinfect garden tools after use.
Septoria Leaf Spot (Septoria lycopersici) (numerous small gray spots, early leaf drop)
Controls: Maintain mulch to prevent soil splash. Apply copper fungicide preventively during humid weather. Remove infected leaves immediately and ensure proper spacing between plants for airflow. Avoid overhead watering.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Blossom End Rot (calcium deficiency, dark, sunken fruit ends)
Controls: Maintain consistent soil moisture and mulch to stabilize hydration. Test soil calcium levels and amend with lime or gypsum as needed. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce calcium uptake.
Cracking (caused by irregular watering or sudden rainfall)
Controls: Keep watering consistent and use mulch to maintain even soil moisture. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Harvest fruit promptly after rain to prevent splitting.
Catfacing (misshapen fruit caused by cool temperatures during flowering)
Controls: Avoid planting too early in the season when nights drop below 55°F. Protect plants with row covers during cool spells. Maintain steady watering and balanced feeding.
Sunscald (white or leathery patches on exposed fruit)
Controls: Maintain healthy foliage to shade fruits. Avoid over-pruning. Provide partial shade during heat waves with shade cloth.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants twice weekly for hornworms, aphids, and leaf spot symptoms.
Rotate crops yearly to prevent soilborne disease buildup.
Maintain mulch for moisture retention and soil splash reduction.
Water evenly at soil level and avoid overhead irrigation.
Prune lower leaves for airflow while maintaining canopy for fruit shade.
Encourage beneficial insects through diverse companion planting.
Remove diseased foliage immediately and disinfect tools and trellises regularly.
Q: What type of tomato is Mortgage Lifter?
Mortgage Lifter is an indeterminate, open-pollinated heirloom beefsteak tomato known for its massive fruits and rich, old-fashioned flavor. Fruits often weigh 1–2 pounds, featuring smooth pink-red skin and dense, meaty flesh with few seeds. It was originally developed in the 1930s by M.C. “Radiator Charlie” Byles of West Virginia, who sold enough plants to pay off his mortgage — giving the variety its memorable name.
Q: How long does Mortgage Lifter take to mature?
Expect 80–90 days from transplant to ripe fruit. It’s a late-season variety that rewards patience with heavy yields of exceptionally large, flavorful tomatoes.
Q: How long does it take for Mortgage Lifter seeds to germinate?
Seeds typically germinate within 6–10 days at 75–90°F (24–32°C). Consistent warmth and humidity encourage quick, even germination.
Q: Does Mortgage Lifter need special soil conditions?
Yes — it thrives in rich, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Deep composting and consistent moisture are key for supporting its large fruit production.
Q: What spacing do Mortgage Lifter tomatoes need?
Space plants 30–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart. Strong staking or cages are essential to support the heavy fruit load and tall vines.
Q: Do I need more than one plant for pollination?
No. Mortgage Lifter is self-pollinating, though pollinator activity and gentle airflow can enhance fruit set.
Q: Can I grow Mortgage Lifter in containers?
Yes — though due to its size, use a container of at least 20 gallons with high-quality soil and heavy-duty support. Regular watering and feeding are crucial for optimal yield.
Q: How tall do Mortgage Lifter plants get?
Plants grow 6–8 feet tall when supported. Pruning excess suckers helps direct energy into fruit growth and improves air circulation.
Q: Why are my Mortgage Lifter fruits cracking or catfacing?
This large-fruited heirloom is prone to cracking or minor deformities when exposed to inconsistent watering or temperature fluctuations. Keep soil moisture steady and avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Q: How should I harvest Mortgage Lifter tomatoes?
Harvest when fruits turn a deep pink-red and feel slightly soft to the touch. Handle gently to avoid bruising their thin skins.
Q: How do I store Mortgage Lifter tomatoes after harvest?
Store at 55–70°F (13–21°C) in a single layer, stem side down. Avoid refrigeration to maintain full flavor and texture.
Q: Are Mortgage Lifter tomatoes good for cooking?
Yes. Their meaty flesh and classic tomato flavor make them excellent for slicing, sauces, and canning. They’re a true all-purpose heirloom variety.
Q: Are Mortgage Lifter tomatoes heirloom?
Yes — this is one of America’s most famous heirlooms, bred during the Great Depression and preserved for nearly a century for its taste, productivity, and story.
Q: Why aren’t my Mortgage Lifter fruits reaching full size?
Overcrowding, insufficient watering, or lack of nutrients can limit growth. Allow ample space and maintain consistent feeding for full-sized fruit.
Q: Can I save seeds from Mortgage Lifter?
Yes — it’s open-pollinated and will breed true. Select ripe, healthy fruit, ferment the seeds 2–3 days in water, rinse thoroughly, and dry before storage.
History & Culture — Mortgage Lifter Beefsteak 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 Mortgage Lifter Tomato is one of the most iconic American heirlooms of the 20th century. It was developed during the Great Depression by M.C. “Radiator Charlie” Byles of Logan, West Virginia — an ingenious mechanic and gardener who crossbred four large-fruited tomatoes to create one of extraordinary size, flavor, and productivity. Byles reportedly sold enough seedlings to pay off his home mortgage, giving the variety its now-famous name.
Yet behind its local legend lies a deeper story — one that continues the Indigenous legacy of selective breeding for taste, resilience, and abundance. The Mortgage Lifter’s massive, pink-red fruits and rich, sweet flavor are a triumph of open-pollinated selection, guided not by laboratories but by human intuition, patience, and respect for the plant’s potential.
In today’s gardens, the Mortgage Lifter Beefsteak Tomato remains a symbol of self-reliance and hope — a reminder that even in hard times, the simple act of tending seed can yield both sustenance and freedom. Each hefty fruit carries not only the flavor of heritage but the enduring spirit of innovation rooted in ancient agricultural wisdom.
Saving seeds from Mortgage Lifter 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:
Mortgage Lifter Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is known for its large, pink-red fruits with a rich flavor. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and sauces.
Tomatoes provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health. Mortgage Lifter 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.
Payment & Security
Payment methods
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Description The Mortgage Lifter Tomato is a legendary American heirloom bred in the 1930s by Radiator Charlie Byles, who famously sold enough of these plants to pay off his mortgage—hence its name. This indeterminate variety produces huge, 1–2 pound fruits with a rich pink-red color, meaty texture, and minimal seeds, making it ideal for slicing and sandwiches.
Maturing in about 80–85 days, the fruit offers a deep, old-fashioned tomato flavor—balanced between sweetness and acidity with a dense, juicy flesh that holds up in salads, sauces, and canning. Its size and reliability have made it a mainstay among heirloom growers and market gardeners for nearly a century.
Plants are vigorous and heavy-bearing, growing 6–8 feet tall with strong stems that benefit from sturdy staking or caging. They thrive in full sun and nutrient-rich, well-drained soil, producing consistently even in long, hot summers. The Mortgage Lifter remains a testament to classic seed stewardship and the power of one gardener’s dedication to quality and flavor.
