Organic 'Mennonite Orange' Tomato
Organic 'Mennonite Orange' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a large orange tomato prized for its exceptional flavor and generous flesh
The 'Mennonite Orange' tomato is a heritage variety beloved by a dedicated following. Indeterminate, vigorous, and generous, it produces large, richly colored orange fruits , averaging 15 cm in diameter , with dense, sweet, and exceptionally flavorful flesh. Many consider it the finest orange tomato —a reputation it richly deserves thanks to its perfect balance of fruity sweetness, aromatic depth, and melting texture.
Impressive in the vegetable garden as well as in the kitchen, it yields magnificent thick slices, ideal for heirloom tomato platters, gourmet sandwiches, or refined summer dishes. This variety, deeply rooted in Mennonite agricultural heritage, is as appealing for its flavor as for its beautiful appearance on the plant.
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, very vigorous
Plant height : 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Large orange fruit, remarkable flavor, Mennonite heritage variety
Fruit color : Bright and deep orange
Fruit shape : Round, broad, slightly flattened
Fruit size/weight : Very large (XL), approximately 15 cm in diameter
Fruit type : Beefsteak
Texture/flesh : Meaty, soft, melting and very aromatic
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix, maintaining a temperature of 23–29°C until germination (5–10 days). Then reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening-off to produce strong seedlings.
Transplant when there is no longer any risk of frost. Space the plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart, with 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3) . Prepare a very sturdy support structure , essential for supporting its large fruit.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit reaches a bright, uniform orange color. To speed up the harvest, pick the fruit as soon as it begins to color , then let it ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store it between 12 and 21°C with 95% relative humidity to preserve its dense texture and sweet aroma.
Usage ideas
• Exceptional in thick slices , ideal for sandwiches, burgers and tasting platters
• Magnificent in salads of heirloom tomatoes , where its color and sweetness shine
• Delicious when cooked gently : roasted, simmered, or in velvety sauces
• Perfect for summer dishes where you want a rich and fruity orange tomato
The 'Mennonite Orange' tomato is a queen among orange tomatoes: majestic, sweet, aromatic, and deeply prized. A must-have heirloom variety for gardeners seeking a large tomato with exceptional flavor.
