Organic 'Harbinger' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, an old variety with an authentic taste
Introduced in the 1910s in England , the 'Harbinger' tomato is a heritage variety that has stood the test of time thanks to its rich and balanced flavour . Producing round red fruits weighing 50-60g , it is renowned for its thin, smooth skin and juicy, sweet flesh. Unlike modern varieties, it offers an intense traditional taste , ideal for those looking for a tomato with a true flavour of the past.
Did you know?
The name Harbinger means "harbinger" in English, referring to its earliness and ability to produce fruit among the first of the season.
Spread: vigorous growth and dense foliage
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') . This indeterminate variety requires strong staking , as it produces abundant clusters of fruit throughout the season.
Harvesting and storage
Harvest tomatoes when they reach their full bright red color and are slightly soft to the touch. For best flavor , allow them to ripen on the vine as much as possible or harvest them slightly green to 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 or freeze them whole for future use in sauces or soups
Drying: Slice them thinly and let them dehydrate slowly for richly flavored dried tomatoes
Preserve: prepare coulis, peeled tomatoes or a homemade sauce to enjoy all year round
With its authentic taste, its earliness and its juicy texture, the 'Harbinger' Tomato is perfect for lovers of old tomatoes looking for an old-fashioned flavor.
