Organic 'Amana Orange' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from seed company Gaia, a giant, juicy tomato from Iowa
The 'Amana Orange' tomato is an heirloom variety that originated in the Amana Colony in Iowa , a community founded by German immigrants in the 19th century. It is distinguished by its large, round, bright orange fruits that can weigh up to 2 lbs . Its firm, juicy, and sweet flesh is a bright yellow-orange , giving it a mild, slightly fruity flavor that is perfect for salads, sandwiches, and homemade sauces.
Did you know?
Orange tomatoes like the 'Amana Orange' are rich in beta-carotene , a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and maintain healthy skin and eyes . Unlike red tomatoes, they contain a form of lycopene that is more easily absorbed by the body, making them a great nutritional choice.
Spread: vigorous growth and sprawling habit
Plant height: 180 to 250 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 sturdy staking , as its large fruits require good support.
Harvesting and storage
Harvest tomatoes when they reach their beautiful deep orange color and are slightly soft to the touch. For best flavor , let them ripen on the vine or harvest them slightly green and let them ripen off the vine at 72°F (22°C).
Store tomatoes at room temperature , in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. For best storage, place them in a cool place (12-21°C) with a relative humidity of 95% . Avoid the refrigerator, as this alters their texture and taste.
Long-term preservation methods
Freezing: Cut them into quarters and freeze them for use in sauces and soups
Drying: Slice them and let them dehydrate slowly for sweet, flavor-packed tomatoes
Preserve: Make a sweet and fruity tomato sauce ideal for Mediterranean dishes and curries
With its impressive size, sweet flesh and bright color, the 'Amana Orange' Tomato is an exceptional variety for those looking for a generous and tasty tomato in the vegetable garden!
