Organic 'Alacrity' Tomato
Organic 'Alacrity' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from Gaia Seeds, an early, productive and tasty Canadian treasure, the first cultivar officially named in the country
The 'Alacrity' tomato is a heritage variety of major historical importance: it is the first officially named tomato cultivar in Canada , resulting from the work of WJ Macoun at the Dominion Experimental Farm (Ottawa), around 1900. Selected from Sparks' Earliana for its very early maturity and high yield , it was perfected for a decade before becoming a mainstay of the first Canadian lines.
Determined and robust, 'Alacrity' produces round, red fruits weighing 4 to 8 oz that are flavorful, fragrant, and have a pleasant texture. It is nearly multifloral , which contributes to its remarkable productivity, although heat can reduce fruit set. Reliable, early-maturing, and perfectly suited to northern climates, it remains a popular variety for its simplicity, authenticity, and rich horticultural history.
Companion plants : Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until mature)
Negative plants : Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Spread/carrying habit : Determined, compact but productive
Plant height : 90 to 120 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : First tomato variety named in Canada, nearly multifloral, early-maturing, very productive, flavorful fruit
Fruit color : Bright red
Fruit shape : Round
Fruit size/weight : 4 to 8 oz (medium to large)
Fruit type : Classic table tomato
Texture/flesh : Juicy, firm, balanced and pleasant flavor
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting out . Bury seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in light potting mix and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C for germination in 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to strengthen seedlings.
Transplant outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Leave 30 to 45 cm (12–18") between plants and 120 to 180 cm (4–6') between rows. Provide full sun and regular watering (level 3) . Light staking is recommended to support the fruit clusters.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has turned a uniform, bright red . To get an earlier harvest, pick at the first sign of blush , then let the tomatoes ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store your tomatoes between 12–21°C , with 95% relative humidity, to preserve their freshness.
Usage ideas
• Perfect in salads, sandwiches and fresh slices
• Excellent for light sauces , thanks to its balanced flesh
• Very good preserved on its own or as a sauce
• Ideal for Nordic gardens , thanks to its rapid maturity
'Alacrity' is not just a tomato: it's a piece of Canadian horticultural history. Early, abundant, flavorful and reliable, it remains one of the best heirloom varieties for anyone wishing to grow an authentic, resistant tomato deeply connected to our agricultural heritage.