Organic 'Savignac' Tomato
Organic 'Savignac' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a robust, flavorful Quebec heir perfectly adapted to cool climates
The 'Savignac' tomato is a true source of horticultural pride for Quebec, developed in the 1930s by Father Armand Savignac. Selected for its cold resistance and high yields despite short summers, it has become an essential heritage variety in northern gardens. Its large, juicy, and fragrant pink tomatoes weigh between 180 and 350 g and offer a rich, sweet, and slightly fruity flavor. Indeterminate, it fruits continuously throughout the season, providing abundant harvests that celebrate the heritage of heirloom varieties grown right here in Quebec.
Its dense yet juicy flesh, vibrant pink color, and excellent natural disease resistance make it an ideal variety for gardeners who want to optimize their space while preserving genetic diversity. 'Savignac' is a generous, authentic tomato, perfectly at home in cooler regions where it has thrived for nearly a century.
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 : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Cold-resistant, large pink tomatoes, excellent flavor, very productive in cool climates
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Place the seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 23–29°C to ensure rapid germination in 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to produce robust seedlings ready for outdoor cultivation.
Transplant once all risk of frost has passed. Space 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) . Despite its height, this indeterminate variety requires sturdy staking to support its heavy, abundant fruit.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has fully developed its deep pink color. To advance the harvest, pick tomatoes that have already begun to color , then let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store them between 12 and 21°C with 95% relative humidity to preserve their texture and flavor.
Usage ideas
• Delicious in thick slices , for sandwiches, gourmet burgers or colorful salads
• Perfect for rosé sauces , thanks to its tender and aromatic flesh
• Excellent for homemade preserves , especially crushed tomatoes
• Ideal for fresh cooking , where its natural sweetness is fully expressed
The 'Savignac' tomato is a Quebec horticultural treasure: hardy, bountiful, flavorful, and deeply rooted in our agricultural history. An essential variety for gardeners looking to grow a reliable, robust heirloom tomato perfectly suited to cooler climates.
