Organic 'Opalka' Tomato
Organic 'Opalka' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, an old Polish variety, long and meaty, perfect for sauce
The 'Opalka' tomato is a heritage variety originating in Poland, cultivated since the early 1900s. Indeterminate, vigorous, and highly productive, it is distinguished by its extremely elongated fruits , more reminiscent of a chili pepper than a traditional tomato. Measuring approximately 13 cm (5") and weighing around 200 g , its fruits are slightly bulbous, often displaying green shoulders mid-season. Their dense, firm, and remarkably sweet flesh contains very few seeds, making it an exceptional tomato for sauces , purées, dehydration, and slow cooking.
The long vines of 'Opalka' bear elegant, slender foliage, typical of European-origin pasta tomatoes. This variety offers a rich and authentic flavor experience, with a deep sweetness and fine texture that clearly distinguish it from other sauce tomatoes.
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/growth habit : Indeterminate, long, vigorous vines
Plant height : 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Elongated fruits of 13 cm, dense and sweet flesh, very few seeds, ideal for sauces
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Plant 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 watering and nitrogen during hardening off to produce strong seedlings ready to support long, productive vines.
Transplant when all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36") apart with 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6') between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) , regular watering (watering level 3) , and install sturdy supports , essential for supporting the length and vigor of the stems.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit turns a deep red and the green shoulders disappear or soften. To get a head start, pick the fruit as soon as it begins to color , then let it ripen off the vine at 22°C or above . Store the fruit between 12 and 21°C , with 95% relative humidity, to preserve its firm texture.
Usage ideas
• Exceptional for homemade sauces , thanks to its dense and sweet flesh
• Ideal for dehydration , producing delicious, concentrated strips
• Perfect for sauces, roasts or slow cooking
• Delicious fresh , sliced in rustic salads or on bruschetta
The 'Opalka' tomato is a gem from Eastern Europe: elegant, bountiful, deeply sweet, and unparalleled for homemade sauces. An essential heirloom variety for any gardener who loves growing authentic and flavorful meaty tomatoes.
