Black Zebra Tomato - Black Zebra Tomato

The Black Zebra Tomato is a spectacular variety renowned for its unique appearance and bold flavor. Its medium-sized fruits display beautiful dark green stripes on a red-brown skin, creating an irresistible decorative contrast. Their sweet and tangy taste makes them a perfect choice for salads, tasting platters, or fresh garden snacks.

As an indeterminate variety, it grows vigorously and produces dense clusters of fruit throughout the season. The Black Zebra adapts well to both traditional gardens and large containers, adding style and productivity to any growing space.

Where to Grow Black Zebra

The Black Zebra thrives in zones 3 to 9, in full sun and rich, well-drained soil. It is suitable for garden beds, raised beds, and large containers, requiring good staking to support its vigorous vines.

Origin and History

A modern variety developed after 2000, the Black Zebra was created to combine beauty and flavor. It quickly became a favorite among gardeners and chefs due to its striking appearance and culinary versatility. Its rich taste and elegant presentation make it a star at farmers' markets and in contemporary gardens.

Canadian Zones

• Zones 8-9: Indoor sowing in January-February, transplanting in April, harvest from June to October.
• Zones 5-7: Indoor sowing from late February to mid-March, transplanting in May, harvest from July to September.
• Zones 3-4: Indoor sowing in late March-early April, transplanting after the last frost (late May-early June), harvest from mid-July to early September.

How to Grow and Harvest Black Zebra

1. Planting: Start seeds 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant 45-60 cm (18-24 inches) apart in rich, well-drained soil.
2. Support: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support the indeterminate vines.
3. Watering: Keep the soil uniformly moist without overwatering. Avoid wetting the foliage.
4. Pruning: Prune suckers and remove lower leaves to improve air circulation and increase production.
5. Harvesting: Pick fruits when they are fully colored, slightly soft, and aromatic, from mid-summer to early autumn.

Tips for Storing Your Seeds

1. Choose fruits: Select fully ripe tomatoes from the most vigorous plants.
2. Extraction: Collect seeds and their gel in a clean container.
3. Fermentation: Allow to ferment for 2 to 3 days with a little water to dissolve the gel.
4. Rinsing and Drying: Rinse thoroughly, then spread the seeds for complete drying.
5. Storage: Store in an airtight container, in a cool, dark place. Viability: up to 5 years.

Certified organic by:
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)