Organic 'Carleton' Tomato
Organic 'Carleton' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from Gaia seed company, a reliable Canadian classic, productive and perfect for fresh or canned produce.
The 'Carleton' tomato, introduced in 1952 by the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa, is an iconic Canadian heirloom variety. Often compared to 'Marglobe', it is distinguished by its round, uniform shape , firm flesh , pleasant and balanced flavor , and high yield year after year. Bred to be reliable in a wide variety of climatic conditions, it perfectly represents the excellence of mid-20th-century Canadian horticultural programs.
Although originally described as determinate, the current line behaves like a compact indeterminate variety , offering continuous production on vigorous plants 90 to 120 cm tall. Its natural disease resistance makes it an ideal choice for home gardeners, while its firm texture and uniformity make it a perfect tomato for fresh eating , canning , sauces , or everyday salads .
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 : Indeterminate, compact
Plant height : 90 to 120 cm (3–4')
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Canadian variety from 1952, reliable, hardy, perfect for canning
Fruit color : Bright red
Fruit shape : Round, smooth and uniform
Fruit size/weight : Average
Fruit type : Table tomato / Canned tomato
Texture/flesh : Firm, juicy, balanced 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 soil. Maintain 23–29 °C for germination in 5 to 10 days . During hardening off, reduce water and nitrogen to strengthen the seedlings.
Transplant when frost is no longer a threat. Space plants 60–90 cm (24–36") apart, with 120–180 cm (4–6') between rows. Grow in full sun , provide regular watering (level 3) , and install sturdy supports , as production is vigorous.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit is a uniform red and slightly soft. To get a head start, pick fruit that has already begun to color , then let it ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store the fruit between 12–21°C and 95% relative humidity to preserve its firmness and flavor.
Usage ideas
• Perfect for canning , coulis and sauces
• Delicious sliced fresh , classic red flavor
• Ideal for everyday salads
• Excellent for light roasting , retaining its firm texture
The 'Carleton' tomato is a source of Canadian horticultural pride: reliable, hardy, flavorful, and versatile. A perfect heirloom variety for any gardener seeking a high-quality red tomato that performs season after season.