Organic 'Burbank' Tomato
Organic 'Burbank' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a classic from Luther Burbank: robust, tasty, productive and suited to dry climates
Selected in 1915 by the legendary breeder Luther Burbank , the 'Burbank' tomato is a heritage variety renowned for its hardiness and ability to produce abundantly even in difficult conditions. Determinate and vigorous, it forms compact and sturdy plants that produce beautiful, round, 3- to 4-inch fruits of a deep red color , with a pronounced flavor that blends sweetness, acidity, and aromatic richness .
Drought-tolerant, disease-resistant, and even rich in amino acids , 'Burbank' excels in dry climates but also performs admirably in cooler regions. Its firm, uniform fruit is perfect for slicing , sandwiches , canning , salsas , and everyday use. It is a reliable, productive, and versatile tomato, highly valued by both home gardeners and commercial growers.
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/carry : Determinate, compact
Plant height : 120 to 150 cm (4–5')
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Drought tolerant, disease resistant, rich in amino acids, Luther Burbank variety
Fruit color : Deep red
Fruit shape : Round
Fruit size/weight : Medium (3–4")
Fruit type : Slicer / table tomato
Texture/flesh : Firm, juicy, pronounced sweet and tangy flavor
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before outdoors . Sow seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 23–29 °C for germination in 5 to 10 days . Reduce water and nitrogen during hardening off to produce sturdy, compact seedlings.
Transplant when all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 30–45 cm (12–18") apart, with 120–180 cm (4–6') between rows. Provide full sun , regular watering (level 3) , and, if desired, light staking to support the fruit load.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit turns a uniform deep red . To get a head start, pick the fruit showing its first signs of color , then let it ripen at 22°C or higher outside the vineyard. Store at 12–21°C with 95% relative humidity to maintain its firmness and juiciness.
Usage ideas
• Perfect sliced : sandwiches, burgers, salads
• Ideal for canning and sauces
• Delicious in fresh salsas
• Excellent for roasting or incorporating into everyday dishes
The 'Burbank' tomato is a jewel of horticultural heritage: hardy, flavorful, reliable, and generous. A perfect heirloom variety for any gardener looking for a classic red tomato that performs well in almost any conditions.
