Organic 'Amana Orange' Tomato
identification
description
Organic 'Amana Orange' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from seed company Gaia, a giant, juicy tomato from Iowa
The 'Amana Orange' tomato is an heirloom variety that originated in the Amana Colony in Iowa , a community founded by German immigrants in the 19th century. It is distinguished by its large, round, bright orange fruits that can weigh up to 2 lbs . Its firm, juicy, and sweet flesh is a bright yellow-orange , giving it a mild, slightly fruity flavor that is perfect for salads, sandwiches, and homemade sauces.
Did you know?
Orange tomatoes like the 'Amana Orange' are rich in beta-carotene , a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and maintain healthy skin and eyes . Unlike red tomatoes, they contain a form of lycopene that is more easily absorbed by the body, making them a great nutritional choice.
Spread: vigorous growth and sprawling habit
Plant height: 180 to 250 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 20 seeds
Companion plants: basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until maturity)
Enemy plants: potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Cultivation method
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out, then transplant to open ground after the last frost , when night temperatures are above 12°C . Plant 3-6 mm (1/8-1/4") deep , spacing plants 60-90 cm (24-36") apart and rows 120-180 cm (4-6') apart. This indeterminate variety requires sturdy staking , as its large fruits require good support.
Harvesting and storage
Harvest tomatoes when they reach their beautiful deep orange color and are slightly soft to the touch. For best flavor , let them ripen on the vine or harvest them slightly green and let them ripen off the vine at 72°F (22°C).
Store tomatoes at room temperature , in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. For best storage, place them in a cool place (12-21°C) with a relative humidity of 95% . Avoid the refrigerator, as this alters their texture and taste.
Long-term preservation methods
Freezing: Cut them into quarters and freeze them for use in sauces and soups
Drying: Slice them and let them dehydrate slowly for sweet, flavor-packed tomatoes
Preserve: Make a sweet and fruity tomato sauce ideal for Mediterranean dishes and curries
