Organic 'Striped Cavern' Tomato

Organic 'Striped Cavern' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a striped tomato-pepper ideal for stuffing

The 'Striped Cavern' tomato, also known as Striped Cavern , is a remarkable heirloom variety producing beautiful, blocky, 8 oz. fruits reminiscent of small peppers. Their vibrant red skin is adorned with yellow and orange stripes , creating a spectacular visual effect. The lobed, partially hollow flesh contains very few seeds, making it ideal for stuffing , baking, and gourmet presentations. Its thin skin softens beautifully with heat, and the variety is known for its high yield and excellent storage qualities. An indeterminate variety, it continues to produce abundantly throughout the season.

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/port : Undetermined
Plant height : 120 to 150 cm (4 to 5′)
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Ribbed fruit, pepper-like shape, hollow cavity perfect for stuffing, delicate skin, very productive

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 . During hardening off, reduce watering and nitrogen application to strengthen the seedlings.

Transplant when all risk of frost has passed, spacing plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36") apart and rows 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6') . Plant in full sun (level 3) and water regularly (level 3) . Indeterminate plants require sturdy staking to support the large fruit and vigorous growth.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest the fruit when their red and yellow striped hues are fully developed. To speed up ripening, pick them at the first sign of color and let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store the tomatoes between 12 and 21°C , with a relative humidity of around 95% to prolong their freshness.

Usage ideas

• Ideal for stuffed tomatoes thanks to its hollow internal cavity
• Perfect for oven cooking : roasts, gratins, vegetarian stuffings
• Delicious grilled or pan-fried thanks to its delicate skin
• Looks stunning in colorful salads with its decorative stripes
• Highly valued at farmers' markets for its unique appearance and culinary versatility

The 'Striped Cavern' tomato is a visual and culinary marvel: unique, meaty, perfect for stuffing, and incredibly productive. A heritage variety that adds creativity and color to the vegetable garden.