Organic 'Pink Bumblebee Cherry' tomato
Organic 'Pink Bumblebee Cherry' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, an irresistible pink striped cherry, sweet and vibrant in color
The 'Pink Bumblebee Cherry' tomato is a superb creation of the late breeder Fred Hempel, known for its vibrant colors and exceptional resilience. Indeterminate, vigorous, and perfectly adapted to challenging conditions, it produces a profusion of small , pale pink cherry tomatoes striped with yellow and orange , as if hand-painted. Their flavor is sweet, fruity, and bright, with a touch of acidity that makes them particularly refreshing. Highly resistant to cracking, it is a favorite among market gardeners and home gardeners looking for a reliable, productive, and visually unique cherry tomato.
Maturing in 60 to 70 days , it climbs vigorously and requires a good trellis. It can also be grown in a pot (minimum 5 gallons), producing charming, colorful clusters throughout the season. 'Pink Bumblebee' is a modern, vibrant, and delicious variety that brings a real burst of color to the vegetable garden.
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 : Pink cherry with yellow-orange stripes, crack-resistant, very productive, perfect for difficult conditions
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 and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C for germination in 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening-off to strengthen seedlings before transplanting.
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 a sturdy trellis , essential for supporting its vigorous growth and abundant fruit clusters.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit is fully displaying its pink-yellow-orange stripes. To bring forward the harvest, pick the fruit that has already begun to show 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 freshness and fruity sweetness.
Usage ideas
• Delicious as a snack , sweet and refreshing
• Looks stunning in multicoloured salads , where its luminous stripes really stand out
• Perfect for heirloom tomato platters , adding brightness and variety
• Excellent in kebabs , quick sauces or light stir-fries
The 'Pink Bumblebee Cherry' tomato is a celebration of color and deliciousness: a small, vibrant cherry, resilient and full of character, perfectly illustrating Fred Hempel's artisanal breeding talent. A must-have variety for a vibrant, productive, and delightfully colorful vegetable garden.
