Organic 'Long Keeper' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, an ideal variety for long-term storage
Selected for its long shelf life , the 'Long Keeper' Tomato is an heirloom variety that allows you to enjoy fresh tomatoes well after the harvest season. Harvested in late summer, it continues to ripen slowly over several weeks , making it a natural alternative to winter tomatoes. Its firm, sweet flesh and thick skin give it excellent storage properties. This tomato is ideal for those who want to extend the pleasure of harvesting into the fall or even winter.
Did you know?
Traditionally, 'Long Keeper' tomato plants were pulled up and hung upside down in cellars , allowing the fruit to ripen gradually over several months.
Spread: vigorous growth and continued production
Plant height: 150 to 200 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 20 seeds
Companion plants: basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until maturity)
Enemy plants: potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Cultivation method
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out, then transplant to open ground after the last frost , when night temperatures are above 12°C . Plant 3-6 mm (1/8-1/4") deep , spacing plants 60-90 cm (24-36") apart and rows 120-180 cm (4-6') apart. This indeterminate variety requires staking , as it produces fruit continuously over a long period.
Harvesting and storage
Harvest tomatoes when they reach their full bright red color and are still firm. For longer storage, you can also harvest them slightly immature , when they start to turn pink, and let them ripen slowly at room temperature.
Store tomatoes at room temperature , in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. For prolonged storage , several methods are possible:
- Wrap each tomato in newspaper and place them in a wooden or cardboard crate.
- Hang the plants upside down in a cool, dark cellar (around 12-16°C) to allow the fruit to continue ripening naturally.
Long-term preservation methods
Freezing: Cut into quarters or freeze whole for use in sauces and soups
Drying: Slice them thinly and let them dehydrate slowly to obtain dried tomatoes full of flavor.
Preserve: Prepare coulis, peeled tomatoes or sauces to enjoy all year round
With its unique ability to store for weeks after harvest, the 'Long Keeper' Tomato is perfect for gardeners looking to enjoy fresh tomatoes long after the season is over.
