Stewarded for generations by Kurdish growers of Diyarbakır, Türkiye, Lice is an indeterminate variety that produces loads of fruits. Fruits ripen simultaneously and evenly to a crimson red color. Although its homeland is dry and hot, it did exceptionally well on our farm in Reedsville, WV.
Medium to large, smooth and occasionally ribbed beefsteak-type fruits of Lice are packed with rich tomato flavor. Fruits have rich, complex flavor that combines sweetness and acidity.
Fruits of Lice Red is resistant to cracking, and they also make excellent sauce and paste. Prolific variety.
Our current seed stock was grown by Tom Wahlberg of Decorah, IA. He was one of the former seed house managers of Seed Savers Exchange.
Commercially introduced by us in the U.S.
Phonetically pronounced: lee-jay
- Solanum lycopersicum
- Full sun
- Planting depth: 1/8″
- Sprouts in 7-10 days
- Ideal growing temperature: 75-95F
- Plant spacing: 24″
- Frost hardy: No
- Growth habit: Indeterminate
- Growing tips: Start in seedling trays in seed starting soil that has essential nutrients in it 6-8 weeks prior to last frost. Barely cover the seeds with soil and keep the soil moist for quick germination. Make sure to keep the young seedlings under good light to have strong plants with sturdy, healthy stems and leaves. Transplant after last frost in well-drained, fertile soil. Feed with liquid fertilizer once every two weeks. Water regularly especially in flower stage. Mulch and always water at plant base to minimize disease. Trellis indeterminate varieties with long vines and prune leaves if the plant canopy becomes too thick for improved air circulation.
I am giving a rating of 4 ONLY because I haven’t planted the seeds yet- shortly after receiving them we moved and are still working on the new garden beds. They arrived on time, and look to be great quality. I would love to update this review in the spring or early summer when I can give a proper review. Thank you!!