Organic 'Tigerella' Tomato
Organic 'Tigerella' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a striped and juicy British cocktail tomato with timeless charm
The 'Tigerella' tomato is a heritage variety originating in the UK, easily recognizable by its splendid red fruits striped with orange-yellow bands. This small cocktail tomato, developed by Dr. Lewis Darby, offers a juicy, fruity, and vibrant flavor that is immediately appealing. Its production is early , consistent, and abundant, with good tolerance to cold and temperature variations, making it an excellent variety for more unpredictable climates.
Although very flavorful, 'Tigerella' can show a slight tendency to crack as it matures—a common characteristic of very juicy and sweet tomatoes. Its attractive striped appearance and vibrant taste nevertheless make it an exceptional choice for salads, heirloom tomato platters, appetizers, and preserves.
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 180 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Unique striped fruit, British variety, early production, fruity and juicy taste
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Place the seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix, then maintain a temperature of 23–29°C to encourage rapid germination (5–10 days). Reduce watering and nitrogen application during hardening-off to produce compact, sturdy plants.
Transplant outdoors 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. Choose a location in full sun (level 3) and ensure regular watering (watering level 3). As with all indeterminate varieties, sturdy staking is necessary.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has fully developed its orange stripes on a red background. To bring forward the harvest, pick as soon as the first color appears, then let it ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store the tomatoes between 12 and 21°C with a relative humidity of approximately 95% .
Usage ideas
• Adds a very decorative striped touch to salads
• Delicious in a cocktail of heirloom tomatoes
• Ideal as an appetizer or in miniature stuffed tomatoes
• Excellent for colorful sauces and preserves
• Very popular in farmers' markets for its unique appearance
The 'Tigerella' tomato is a small marvel, both visually and in terms of taste: early-maturing, productive, resilient, and deliciously juicy. A must-have variety for gardeners seeking originality and flavor.
