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Growing Oaxacan Jewel Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To cultivate the vibrant and sweet Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes, begin by starting the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date. Sow the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches in well-draining, loose, and slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.2 to 6.8. Provide ample moisture and maintain a germination temperature between 65-85 F. Once the seedlings have developed and outdoor conditions are favorable, transplant them into your garden plot, raised bed, or greenhouse with 24-36 inches spacing between plants. As indeterminate tomatoes, Oaxacan Jewel vines will sprawl and continue to grow throughout the season, necessitating support like a cage or trellis.

For optimal growth and harvest of Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes, incorporating certain maintenance practices and companion planting can enhance the overall success of your cultivation. Regularly monitor for pests like tomato hornworms, cutworms, and aphids, implementing organic neem-based products as needed. To promote healthy growth and prevent diseases such as powdery mildew, maintain a consistent watering schedule. Companion planting with basil and marigolds can help deter pests and improve flavor while planting them near onions can assist in deterring aphids. Providing support like a sturdy cage or trellis for the indeterminate vines is essential for preventing sprawling and promoting proper growth. Additionally, consider mulching around the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Observing these tips will contribute to a thriving Oaxacan Jewel tomato garden, providing a bountiful harvest of these sweet and fruity tomatoes.

Harvesting Oaxacan Jewel Tomatoes

Harvesting Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes requires careful attention to the fruit's color and firmness, considering the indeterminate nature of the plant. These vine-type tomatoes continue to produce throughout the season, allowing for a prolonged harvesting period. As the tomatoes mature, their flesh transforms into a golden orange hue with deep red streaks. To determine the optimal time for harvest, observe the color change and gently squeeze the tomatoes; they should yield slightly to pressure without being too soft. Harvesting should ideally begin when the tomatoes reach their full color potential and firmness, as this indicates peak flavor. Use pruning shears or simply twist the tomatoes gently to detach them from the vine, taking care not to damage the plant. Regularly harvesting ripe fruit encourages continuous production and ensures a steady supply of rich, sweet, and fruity Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes for salads, fresh eating, and slicing throughout the growing season.

About Oaxacan Jewel Tomato Garden Seeds

Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes trace their roots to the mountainous region of Oaxaca, Mexico, where they have been cultivated for their unique attributes. This heirloom variety has a rich history, with seeds passed down through generations, contributing to its distinctive flavor and appearance. While the specific breeding details may not be documented, Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes are cherished for their sweet, fruity taste and their vibrant red, yellow, and orange colors. The variety's adaptability to warmer climates, reflected in its preference for temperatures between 70-85 F, suggests a natural selection suited to the conditions of Oaxaca.

Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes are indeterminate, vine-type plants, making them more suitable for larger spaces like garden plots and raised beds. While they may be challenging for container gardens due to their sprawling growth habit and height of 48-60 inches, providing sturdy support and proper staking can still make them feasible in larger containers. However, hanging baskets might not be the ideal choice due to the plant's vigorous and sprawling nature. Optimal results are achieved when these tomatoes are cultivated in well-draining, loose soil with a slightly acidic pH. This fosters resistance to common pests and diseases and ensures a bountiful harvest of these flavorful and visually striking tomatoes.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"To enhance the flavor complexity of Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes, consider implementing a stress-inducing technique during the ripening phase. As the tomatoes near maturity, reduce watering slightly, subjecting the plants to controlled drought stress. This mild stress can stimulate the production of certain compounds responsible for intensified tomato flavors. While it's important not to let the plants undergo severe water deprivation, a subtle reduction in watering during the final ripening stages can contribute to a richer and more robust taste in your Oaxacan Jewel tomatoes. Experiment with this method to unlock a depth of flavor that truly highlights the unique characteristics of this heirloom variety."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer