Organic 'Cherokee Carbon F1' tomato
'Cherokee Carbon' F1 organic tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a dark purple hybrid, robust, productive and with a remarkable flavor
The 'Cherokee Carbon' F1 tomato combines two legends: the aromatic depth of Cherokee Purple and the hardiness of Carbon , resulting in an exceptional hybrid that resists cracking and yields generously until the first frosts. Indeterminate and vigorous, it produces 10-12 oz. deep purple fruits with an almost velvety beauty. Its flavor is rich, sweet, and slightly smoky, with the characteristic complexity of dark-colored heirloom tomatoes.
Developed by PanAmerican Seeds , this variety offers superior performance: improved uniformity, excellent physiological resistance, continuous production, and remarkable garden vigor. An ideal hybrid for gardeners who want all the flavor of a heritage variety… with the reliability of a modern one.
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, vigorous
Plant height : 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : F1 hybrid, crack resistant, production until frost, Cherokee heritage
Fruit color : Dark purple
Fruit shape : Flattened round
Fruit size/weight : Large (10–12 oz)
Fruit type : Hybrid purple beefsteak
Texture/flesh : Juicy, dense, with a deep and slightly smoky flavor
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting out . Place the seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 23–29 °C to encourage rapid germination (5 to 10 days). Then reduce watering and nitrogen during the acclimation period to produce vigorous plants.
Transplant when all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60–90 cm (24–36") apart with 120–180 cm (4–6') between rows. Provide full sun , regular watering (level 3) , and sturdy staking , which is necessary to support the heavy fruit throughout the season.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruits turn a deep purple and become slightly soft. To get an early start, pick tomatoes that have already begun to color , then let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store between 12–21°C and 95% relative humidity to maintain their firm texture.
Usage ideas
• Perfect in thick slices , rich and juicy
• Excellent for sandwiches, gourmet burgers , fresh dishes
• Stunning in trays of heirloom tomatoes , thanks to its dark color
• Delicious when cooked gently , which concentrates its sweet and smoky notes
The 'Cherokee Carbon' F1 tomato is an exceptional hybrid: dark, flavorful, robust, and incredibly productive. An ideal variety for gardeners seeking the perfect balance between tradition and modern performance.
