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When it comes to heirloom tomatoes, few varieties are as storied and beloved as the Mortgage Lifter. Originating from West Virginia, this tomato not only represents a triumph in horticulture but also embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience of the people of the Mountain State. Let's dive into the history and significance of this remarkable tomato.

A Tale of Ingenuity: Radiator Charlie and the Birth of the Mortgage Lifter

The story of the Mortgage Lifter tomato begins with a man named Marshall Cletis Byles, better known as "Radiator Charlie." In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, Radiator Charlie operated a radiator repair business in Logan, West Virginia. Despite the tough economic times, Charlie had a passion for gardening, particularly for breeding tomatoes.

In an effort to create a better tomato, Radiator Charlie embarked on a crossbreeding project. He started with four large tomato varieties: German Johnson, Beefsteak, an unknown Italian variety, and an English variety. Over the course of six years, he meticulously cross-pollinated these tomatoes, selecting the best plants each season. The result was a robust, large, and meaty tomato that would become known as the Mortgage Lifter.

The Name That Says It All

The name "Mortgage Lifter" has its roots in the impact this tomato had on Radiator Charlie's life. Once he had perfected his tomato, he began selling the seedlings for $1 each, which was quite a sum during the Depression era. The tomatoes were so popular that people traveled from far and wide to purchase them. Within a few years, Radiator Charlie had sold enough seedlings to pay off the mortgage on his home, giving the tomato its iconic name.

Characteristics of the Mortgage Lifter Tomato

The Mortgage Lifter tomato is prized for its impressive size and excellent flavor. Here are some key characteristics that make it a favorite among gardeners and tomato enthusiasts:

• Size: Mortgage Lifter tomatoes are known for their large size, often weighing between 1 and 2 pounds each.
• Flavor: They have a rich, sweet taste with a meaty texture, making them perfect for slicing and using in sandwiches, salads, and sauces.
• Productivity: These plants are highly productive, yielding a bountiful harvest throughout the growing season.
• Disease Resistance: Mortgage Lifters are relatively resistant to common tomato diseases, which contributes to their popularity in home gardens.

Growing Mortgage Lifter Tomatoes

If you're inspired to grow your own Mortgage Lifter tomatoes, here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Planting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
2. Soil: Plant in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
3. Sunlight: Ensure your tomato plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage.
5. Support: Use stakes or cages to support the plants, as the large tomatoes can cause the branches to droop or break.
6. Feeding: Fertilize with a balanced tomato fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.

A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation

The Mortgage Lifter tomato stands as a testament to the ingenuity and determination of West Virginia's people. Radiator Charlie's story is one of turning passion into prosperity, and his legacy lives on in gardens across the country. By growing Mortgage Lifter tomatoes, gardeners not only enjoy a delicious and productive variety but also become part of a rich history that celebrates creativity, hard work, and the enduring spirit of West Virginia.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, consider adding Mortgage Lifter tomatoes to your garden. Their rich history and exceptional qualities make them a truly special addition to any tomato lover's collection.