Dester

Described as exceptionally rich and sweet, a German potato-leaf pink that rivals the best heirlooms. This is the recurring catalog and grower description, not a measured claim.

A German potato-leaf heirloom brought to the United States from Germany by the family of Dr. Herbert Edgar Dester, a physician and Mennonite missionary, and later introduced to wider trade through Baker Creek.

• Indeterminate vine. It keeps growing and setting fruit right up to frost, so plan on a tall stake or cage and regular pruning through the season.
• Mid-season timing, ripening around 70 to 80 days from transplant.
• A moderate grow, no special tricks but worth steady attention.
• Wants real summer warmth and is slow to set when nights stay cool.
• Prone to cracking and splitting after wet spells.
• One of our picks for the cold, short-season gardens of New England.

Sold out, or after a change? The closest alternatives, and how they differ.

Brandywinebut a German family heirloom with its own rich pink flavorGerman Pinkbut a distinct potato-leaf strain

• Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
• Totally Tomatoes

• Heirloom vs Hybrid Tomatoes
• Slicer vs Beefsteak Tomatoes

Is Dester determinate or indeterminate?

Dester is an indeterminate variety. Indeterminate vine. It keeps growing and setting fruit right up to frost, so plan on a tall stake or cage and regular pruning through the season.

How long does Dester take to ripen?

Dester ripens in about 80 days from transplant. Mid-season timing, ripening around 70 to 80 days from transplant.

Is Dester an heirloom or a hybrid?

Dester is an heirloom, an open-pollinated variety with a documented history, so seed saved from it comes back true to type.

What can I grow instead of Dester?

A close swap is Brandywine, but a German family heirloom with its own rich pink flavor.