Organic 'Vernissage Black' Tomato
'Vernissage Black' organic tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a small black and red striped tomato, rich in flavor and character
The 'Vernissage Black' tomato is a heritage variety prized for its striking appearance: a dark red base marbled with deep black stripes. These small, artistically designed fruits are as delicious as they are elegant, offering sweet, juicy, and fragrant flesh, perfect for cocktails, colorful salads, and tasting platters. Highly productive and mid-season, this indeterminate variety fruits generously throughout the summer and is distinguished by its visual appeal as much as its flavor.
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 : Black and red striped fruit, excellent flavor, high productivity
Farming method
Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Plant 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in fine potting soil and maintain a temperature of 23–29°C to ensure rapid germination, usually in 5 to 10 days. During hardening off, slightly reduce water and nitrogen to encourage a strong root system.
Transplant outdoors once all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart in rows 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) apart. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3). As this is an indeterminate variety, sturdy staking is essential.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the fruit when its deep red color with black stripes is fully developed. To get an earlier harvest, pick as soon as the first color appears, then let them ripen at 22°C or higher off the vine. Store the tomatoes between 12 and 21°C with a relative humidity of around 95%.
Usage ideas
• Magnificent in tomato cocktails thanks to its unique ribbed appearance
• Delicious in salads to add color and aromatic complexity
• Perfect in platters of assorted heirloom tomatoes
• Very attractive for farmers' markets thanks to its rare and artistic appearance
• Perfect for chilled consumption
The 'Vernissage Black' tomato is an essential heirloom variety for gardeners seeking an artistic, productive, and delicious tomato. A true little work of art in the vegetable garden.
