Black Zebra Tomato

An eye-catching variety known for its unique appearance and bold flavour. The medium-sized fruits are beautifully streaked with dark green stripes over brownish-red skin, making them as decorative as they are delicious. These tomatoes have a sweet, tangy flavour that makes them perfect for salads, garnishes, or fresh snacks.

This indeterminate variety grows vigorously, producing dense clusters of fruit throughout the growing season. Black Zebra Tomatoes thrive in vegetable gardens and containers, offering versatility and style to any gardening setup.

Where Can You Grow Black Zebra Tomato

Black Zebra Tomato thrives in Zones 3-9, requiring full sun and nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. It is well-suited to garden beds, raised beds, and large containers with proper support.

History and Historical Uses

As a modern variety (post-2000) bred for both beauty and taste, Black Zebra Tomato has quickly become a favourite for its unique appearance and culinary versatility. Its combination of striking looks and rich flavour makes it a standout in home gardens and farmers' markets alike.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Start seeds indoors in January or February and transplant outdoors in April. Harvest from June through October.
• Zones 5-7: Sow seeds indoors in late February to mid-March and transplant outdoors in May. Harvest runs from July through September.
• Zones 3-4: Start seeds indoors in late March or early April, transplant after the last frost in late May or early June, and harvest from mid-July to early September.

How to Grow and Harvest Black Zebra Tomato

1. Planting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings 45-60cm (18-24in) apart in nutrient-rich soil.
2. Support: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support the vigorous indeterminate vines.
3. Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent disease.
4. Pruning: Prune suckers and lower leaves to enhance air circulation and maximise fruit production.
5. Harvesting: Pick fruits when fully coloured, slightly soft to the touch, and aromatic, from mid-summer to early autumn.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Choose Ripe Fruits: Select fully ripened tomatoes from the healthiest plants.
2. Extract Seeds: Scoop seeds and their surrounding gel into a clean container.
3. Fermentation: Add a small amount of water and let sit uncovered for 2-3 days, stirring daily to remove the gel coating.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the seeds thoroughly and spread them on a clean towel or screen to dry completely.
5. Store: Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 5 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)