Organic 'Teton De Venus' Tomato
Organic 'Teton de Venus' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a Navajo variety with an irresistibly charming heart shape
The 'Teton de Venus' tomato is a rare heirloom variety of Navajo origin, prized for its unique heart shape, often produced in pairs , each adorned with a small nipple that gives it its distinctive appearance. Its flesh is very meaty, almost juice-free, and offers a rich, savory flavor that lends itself equally well to hearty salads or thick slices for sandwiches or fresh dishes. An indeterminate variety, it produces throughout the season on vigorous plants, yielding good-sized fruits with a dense texture.
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/Habit : Indeterminate, vigorous growth
Plant height : 120 to 180 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Traditional Navajo variety, heart-shaped fruit, dense and flavorful flesh, very decorative appearance
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in fine potting mix and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C for rapid germination (5–10 days). Slightly reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening-off to strengthen the seedlings.
Transplant into the garden once the risk of frost has passed, spacing 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 (level 3). This indeterminate variety requires sturdy staking due to the weight and size of the fruit.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the tomato has fully developed its characteristic color. For early harvests, pick at the first sign of color, then let it ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store between 12 and 21°C with approximately 95% relative humidity for optimal preservation.
Usage ideas
• Delicious in thick slices in sandwiches and burgers
• Delicious in fresh salads , thanks to its dense and flavorful flesh
• Ideal for elegant presentations thanks to its distinctive shape
• Excellent for grilling or roasting , revealing a concentrated flavor
• A heritage variety perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of unique tomatoes
The 'Teton de Venus' tomato embodies the beauty and diversity of heritage varieties: a tomato that is decorative, flavorful, and deeply rooted in a fascinating cultural history. A remarkable addition to any heirloom tomato garden.
