About this variety
Tennessee Burley TN90 is a variety of Nicotiana tabacum, the cultivated tobacco plant. The product card describes it as an upright plant with large, broad, light green leaves, developed by the University of Tennessee. The notes below cover the plant traits listed for this variety and how the seeds are sown and grown.
Also known as: common tobacco, cultivated tobacco, tambaku (Hindi), tabaco (Spanish/Portuguese), tabac (French), Tabak (German), tutün (Turkish)
About the plant
- Species: Nicotiana tabacum, grown from seed.
- Leaf type: burley, listed on the card as an air-cured variety.
- Habit: robust and upright, reaching roughly 5 to 6 feet (about 1.5 to 1.8 m) in height.
- Leaves: large and broad, up to about 24 inches (60 cm) long and 12 inches (30 cm) wide. They are light green while the plant is growing.
- Origin of the variety: the card states that TN90 was developed by the University of Tennessee.
- Disease resistance: the card lists resistance to black shank, black root rot, wildfire and tobacco mosaic virus (TMV).
Because a mature plant is tall and carries long leaves, TN90 suits a gardener or plant collector who has a sunny plot with room to spare. The card also describes the variety as adaptable to different climates and growing conditions when it is given proper care.
Growing Tennessee Burley TN90 from seed
- Sowing indoors: start the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
- Light: press the seeds lightly onto the soil surface and do not cover them, because they need light to germinate. The seed is very fine, so a gentle mist is kinder than a heavy watering can.
- Soil: fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Working organic matter into the bed before planting supports growth.
- Sun and water: give the plants full sun and water consistently, keeping the soil moist without letting it become waterlogged.
- Transplanting: move seedlings outdoors after the last frost, once they are large enough to handle. Leave generous space between plants so the broad leaves have room and air can move through the row.
Keep a note of your sowing and transplanting dates. Plant size, leaf size and timing will vary with climate, soil and season, so your own records are the most reliable guide for the next season.
FAQ
What conditions do the seeds need to germinate?
The seeds need light. Press them onto the surface of moist, well-drained soil and leave them uncovered. Keep the surface evenly damp while they germinate.
When should I sow Tennessee Burley TN90?
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.
How tall does Tennessee Burley TN90 grow?
The card gives a height of about 5 to 6 feet, with leaves up to about 24 inches long and 12 inches wide. Plan your spacing, and any shelter from strong wind, for a tall plant with large leaves.
What soil does it prefer?
Fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0, enriched with organic matter, in a position that gets full sun.




