Tomato ‘Principe Borghese’ Seeds | Eternal Hanging Tomato for Drying

Tomato ‘Principe Borghese da Appendere’ (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a legendary Italian heritage variety, famously known as the “Eternal Tomato” for its exceptional drying qualities. This indeterminate (cordon) plant produces abundant clusters of small, oval, plum-shaped fruits, each weighing 90-100g, with dense, meaty flesh and very few seeds.​

Renowned for its intense, concentrated flavour, ‘Principe Borghese’ is the quintessential tomato for sun-drying. Its unique claim to fame is the traditional practice of pulling the entire plant at season’s end and hanging it upside down in a dry, airy place, allowing the fruits to dry slowly on the vine for winter use. Fresh, they are equally superb in salads, sauces, and antipasti.​

🌱 Sowing information
Sow seeds indoors in a warm, bright location. Sow 2-3 seeds per pot, about 0.5 cm deep, in a quality seed compost. Thin to the strongest seedling. An early start ensures a long growing season for maximum fruit set.​

☀️ Light exposure
Requires a full sun position. The hottest, sunniest, and most sheltered spot is essential for developing the high sugar content needed for successful drying. A south facing aspect is ideal.​

💧 Water needs
Water seedlings regularly. Once established, water consistently at the base to maintain even soil moisture. Reduce watering slightly as fruits begin to ripen to concentrate flavours and sugars.​

🌡️ Germination temperature & time
Seeds require consistent warmth, ideally 18–24°C, for reliable germination. Seedlings typically emerge in 7–14 days. A heated propagator is highly recommended for early sowings.​

📏 Plant spacing & final size
Space plants 45–55 cm apart in the ground. They are vigorous, tall vines that require sturdy staking or a strong trellis system to support the heavy load of fruit.​

🌼 Harvesting notes
For fresh use, harvest when fully coloured. For drying, harvest individual fruits at peak ripeness or adopt the traditional method: before the first frost, pull up the entire plant, shake off soil, and hang upside down in a cool, dry, ventilated place to dry naturally.​

Bullet Technical Data
🌱 Sowing depth: 0.5 cm deep​
📅 Ideal planting months for Ireland: Sow indoors February to April. Transplant outdoors after last frost, typically late May/early June.​
☀️ Light requirements: Full sun​
🌡️ Germination time: 7–14 days with warmth​
📏 Plant height: Indeterminate vine, can reach 1.5-1.8m​
🪴 Spacing: 45–55 cm between plants​
⏳ Days to maturity: Approximately 75-85 days from transplanting​