Benguet’s Wild Cherry
$2.50
- Grown, sold, and described by Bunny Hop Seeds
- Plant growth: indeterminate
- Leaf type: regular leaf
- Time to maturity: early-midseason
- Approx. number of seeds per pack: 20+
- Germination tested after Hot Water Seed Treatment for Fungal and Bacterial Diseases
“Benguet’s Wild Cherry” may not be the official name of this variety, as it may not actually have one. My friend in the Philippines, who has provided me with so many varieties that grow well in heat and humidity, sent me seeds for this cherry. He described it as: “…acquired foraged fruits from the highlands,” locally just called “Cherry Tomato.” The area he mentioned is the Province of Benguet, which is known as the “Salad Bowl of the Philippines” due to its huge production of upland vegetables. I have to say, this cherry tomato may grow well in the mountains, but it also grows extremely well at 33 feet above sea level, in my garden. I grew Benguet’s Wild Cherry in a pot the first year, and in the ground this year. I wanted to give it an extreme test, so I planted it in a bed I know to have bacterial wilt and nematodes. I cannot officially say that this variety has resistance or tolerance genetically to bacterial wilt and nematodes; however, the plants thrived throughout and slightly past my normal growing season. It also did not get late blight, which sweeps my garden every spring. The fruits are smooth, shiny, meaty and juicy bright red cherries. The size is about 0.6 ounces. The flavor is rich with sweetness but not sugary sweet. Benguet’s Wild Cherry is a standout in a salad or a pasta dish, such as the one I have here, of my linguini with cherry tomatoes and fresh mushrooms. This variety is joining my “WOW” list for its excellent strong flavor and vigorous performance in heat and humidity.
NOTE: Germinate these seeds in a potting soil mix or soilless mix, but not in damp paper towels/plastic zip bags! This made the difference of 100% germination in 5 days (in my soil mix) versus ZERO percent germination after 14 days in the plastic bag method.
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