Tomato Mortgage Lifter

Description

The Mortgage Lifter Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is an American heirloom legend, famous not only for its massive, flavorful fruits but for the story behind its name. In the 1930s, a humble mechanic nicknamed “Radiator Charlie” bred this extraordinary tomato by crossing several large-fruited varieties and selling his seedlings to neighbors at $1 per seed=eventually earning enough to pay off his mortgage.

Decades later, the variety still lives up to its fame. Mortgage Lifter produces enormous, pink-red beefsteak tomatoes weighing 1–2 pounds each, with dense, meaty flesh, minimal seeds, and a rich, sweet, old-fashioned flavor that perfectly balances low acidity and natural sugar. Each slice feels like summer on a plate-thick, juicy, and bursting with real tomato flavor that supermarket hybrids can’t match.

This indeterminate, open-pollinated heirloom thrives in warm, sunny conditions, growing vines up to 8–9 feet tall that set generous clusters of fruit throughout the season. It’s ideal for gardeners who love big, rewarding harvests and crave a variety that performs beautifully in both home gardens and market displays. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost, transplant after the soil has warmed, and provide sturdy staking or caging for best results. With consistent watering, fertile soil, and a touch of care, you’ll be rewarded with giant, picture-perfect tomatoes that carry the flavor and pride of America’s heirloom heritage. If you’ve ever dreamed of growing a tomato that truly tells a story, the Mortgage Lifter belongs in your garden: proven, productive, and unforgettable.