The Size of a Fuzzy Bomb Tomato Plant

But is it Edible?

• Fuzzy Bomb is what's called an heirloom tomato. Among other things, they are known for outstanding taste. Like family heirlooms, seeds of these open-pollinated plants have been passed down from generation to generation because of the tomato's special qualities. Fuzzy Bomb is one of several white-haired tomatoes -- called angoras by those in the know. The hairs appear on the plant's 10-inch leaves and long stems, not on the fruit itself. With Fuzzy Bomb's vigorous growth habit, there is plenty of taste and fuzz to go around.

The Tomato That Keeps on Growing

• If you've only grown determinate tomatoes, the size of indeterminate heirlooms such as Fuzzy Bomb will amaze. Determinate tomatoes stop growing when they set fruit at the very top. At best, they grow to a compact 3 to 4 feet. All the fruit ripens over one to two weeks. As an indeterminate tomato, Fuzzy Bomb keeps on growing and fruiting until frost puts an end to its growth. Through the growing season, the plant blooms, sets fruit and ripens continuously for months. Though it commonly grows 6 to 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide, it can reach heights up to 12 feet. Fuzzy Bomb requires substantial staking to support its size.

Can I Prune That Thing?

• Don't try to keep Fuzzy Bomb small. Prune to celebrate its robust growth. Selective pruning promotes more or bigger fruit. Use garden scissors or pruning shears to remove leaves on the bottom 10 inches of the plant. This increases air circulation, discourages disease and keeps fruit off the ground. To prevent the spread of disease, sterilize pruning instruments before and after every cut. For more tomatoes, let the vines grow as they will; no further pruning is required. For taller vines or larger fruit, remove extra lateral vines where the hairy leaves meet main stems. This redirects energy and results in taller vines and bigger tomatoes. As the end of the season nears, remove flowers to speed ripening of remaining fruit.

Now, About That Fruit

• Like many heirloom tomatoes, Fuzzy Bomb's unusual shape defies tomato uniformity often seen in stores. Exceptional taste awaits under those odd-looking cracks and crevices. Unlike thick-skinned modern varieties, this heirloom's tasty red flesh comes wrapped in thin, flavorful red skin. Measuring an average of 5 inches or more in diameter, Fuzzy Bomb tomatoes weigh in at 12 to 16 ounces each. Not surprisingly, they are a regular feature at heirloom tomato shows and tastings.