Organic 'Siberia' Tomato
Organic 'Siberia' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a pioneer of cold-hardy varieties for short growing seasons and extreme climates
The 'Siberia' tomato is a remarkable heirloom variety, capable of fruiting in exceptionally low temperatures, sometimes as low as 3°C. Compact, with a thick, robust stem, it has been selected to offer reliable production where other varieties struggle to establish themselves. Its bright red, medium-sized, globe-shaped fruits weigh between 85 and 200 g and ripen very early in the season, making it a preferred choice for northern regions, high altitudes, or gardens with short summers. Discovered in 1975 by horticulturist Ron Driskill and associated with trials in Siberia, it carries an aura of resilience that is reflected in its exemplary performance in harsh climates.
This determined variety produces a concentrated yield, resulting in abundant harvests in a short period. Its flavor is straightforward, classic, and slightly tangy, with firm flesh ideal for everyday use: sandwiches, salads, salsas, or simple preserves. Its compact size also makes it well-suited to containers, urban gardens, and small spaces. The seed was lovingly passed down to us by our friend Richard Beaudette, adding a touch of history and tradition to this already exceptional tomato.
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 : Determinate, compact
Plant height : 60 to 90 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Cold-resistant, very early-maturing, suitable for containers, medium-sized, globe-shaped fruit
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 and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C to encourage rapid germination, within 5 to 10 days . Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to produce short, sturdy plants ready for planting outdoors.
Transplant outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. Space plants 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) apart with 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3) . Thanks to its determinate growth habit, 'Siberia' requires little to no pruning and minimal staking, making it very easy to grow, even in the harshest conditions.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit reaches its characteristic bright red color for optimal flavor. 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 between 12 and 21°C with 95% relative humidity to preserve their quality and firmness.
Usage ideas
• Perfect for everyday sandwiches and salads thanks to its firm flesh
• Ideal for fresh salsas and quick recipes
• Excellent in simple preserves or in wedges
• Prized for northern and container cultivation , where it excels in challenging conditions
The 'Siberia' tomato is a valuable ally for gardeners in cold and unpredictable climates. Reliable, robust, and surprisingly productive despite low temperatures, it offers a breath of hope and warmth where summer is scarce. An essential variety for extending the possibility of growing tomatoes, even in the most challenging climates.
