Tomato Seeds - Slicing - Valencia (Organic)
76 Days to maturity (from transplant). Solanum lycopersicum. Organic Valencia Tomato Seeds. Non-GMO, warm season annual, open-pollinated, organic, heirloom, indeterminate, slicing tomato. Suitable for growing in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Valencia is a Maine family heirloom that averages 8-16 ounces. The fruits are round, smooth, orange, meaty, and have few seeds. Approx. 11,000 seeds/ounce.
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Growing Organic Valencia Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden
Valencia tomatoes, known for their exceptional flavor and juiciness, are a popular choice for organic gardeners due to their versatility and suitability for various culinary uses. When planting Valencia tomatoes, it's essential to follow organic gardening practices to ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest. The planting process begins by selecting high-quality organic Valencia tomato seeds from a reputable supplier. True Leaf Market offers a range of organic tomato seeds, including the Valencia variety.
To start the seeds, plant them indoors 6-8 weeks before your area's expected last frost date. Use an organic seed starting mix and sow the Valencia tomato seeds at a depth of approximately 1/4 inch. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of 70-80°F to facilitate optimal germination. Providing adequate light is crucial for the seedlings' healthy development. A sunny south-facing window or the use of organic grow lights can ensure they receive the necessary light exposure.
As the Valencia tomato seedlings grow, it's important to practice organic maintenance throughout the growing process. This includes using organic fertilizers and soil amendments to provide essential nutrients. Companion planting with basil, marigolds, or borage can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem. Additionally, mulching with organic materials such as straw or compost can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
When the Valencia tomato seedlings have developed strong stems and several sets of true leaves, they are ready for transplanting outdoors. Before transplanting, harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. This process helps acclimate the plants to their new environment and reduces transplant shock. Choose a sunny location with well-draining, fertile soil for transplanting the Valencia tomatoes.
Throughout the growing season, it's important to provide organic maintenance, such as regular watering, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Pruning the lower leaves of the Valencia tomato plants can improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease. Additionally, using organic pest control methods such as handpicking pests and applying insecticidal soaps or neem oil can help manage common garden pests without synthetic chemicals.
Harvesting Valencia Organic Tomatoes
Valencia tomatoes are best harvested at peak ripeness, typically when the fruits have turned solid orange and have a slight give when gently squeezed. As an indeterminate variety, Valencia tomatoes produce fruit continuously until the first frost, requiring ongoing harvesting throughout the growing season. To determine ripeness, look for the fruits to have a beautiful sunset orange color inside and out. When harvesting, gently twist the ripe tomatoes to detach them from the vine, taking care not to damage the plant.
About Organic Valencia Tomato Garden Seeds
The term "Valencia" in tomatoes can be associated with different varieties, but one notable type is the "Valencia" or "Valencia Orange" tomato. The history of this variety is not extensively documented, but it is commonly known for its round and smooth fruits with a distinct orange or deep orange-red color.
Valencia tomatoes are often bred for their sweet and juicy flavor, making them a popular choice for fresh eating, salads, and canning. They are known for their versatility in the kitchen, and they are suitable for slicing, dicing, or making sauces and salsas. The orange adds a vibrant touch to dishes and provides a slightly different flavor profile than traditional red tomatoes.
They average from 8 ounces to 16 ounces, and the flesh is meaty with few seeds. Valencia is a Maine family heirloom variety.
These tomatoes are often appreciated for their ability to thrive in warmer climates, making them suitable for regions with hot and sunny weather.
Regarding cultivation, Valencia tomatoes can be grown in large containers, making them a great option for container gardens. This is particularly beneficial for gardeners with limited space or those who prefer the flexibility of moving plants around. However, it's important to choose a large enough container (20 gallons) to accommodate the plant's root system and provide proper support. They are not a good choice for hanging baskets.
Overall, Valencia tomatoes offer a flavorful and visually appealing addition to gardens, providing a burst of color and taste to culinary creations.
Tips From Our Gardeners
"Try slicing Valencia tomatoes and layering them with slices of mozzarella and large basil leaves. Drizzle the arrangement with balsamic glaze and enjoy a refreshing and filling snack!"
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- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer |
Other Resources
Valencia Organic Tomato Seeds Per Package:
- 300 mg packet - Approximately 116 Seeds
- 0.25 oz - Approximately 2,750 Seeds
- 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 11,000 Seeds
- 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 44,000 Seeds
- 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 176,600 Seeds
Non-GMO Organic Valencia Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
Basic Info
| Latin Name: | Solanum lycoperscium (previously Lycopersicon esculentum) |
| Tomato Type: | Slicing - Larger, round tomatoes, the size of your fist or larger. |
| Organic Valencia Tomato Color: | Orange |
| Organic Valencia Tomato Flavor: | Mild, sweet, low-acid, and meaty |
Growing Info
| Hardiness Zone: | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Annual: Not intended to overwinter |
| Days to Maturity: | 76 (from transplant) |
| Days to Germination: | 7-10 |
| Seeding Depth: | 0.25 inch |
| Plant Spacing: | 24-36 inches |
| Row Spacing: | 36 inches |
| Plant Height: | 36-60 inches |
| Growth Habit: | Indeterminate - Indeterminate tomatoes are vine-type plants that sprawl (requiring a cage or trellis to support them) and continue to grow throughout the season. Indeterminate tomato plants will continue to produce tomatoes for the rest of the season, so you can harvest continually. |
| Soil Preference: | Well-draining, loose (sandy loam), slightly acidic (6.2 to 6.8), and moisture retaining. Too much nitrogen in the soil may lead to more foliage production and less fruiting. Tomatoes like more phosphorus and potassium than other vegetables. |
| Temperature Preference: | Warmer (70-85 F) |
| Light Preference: | Full Sun |
Other
| Direct Sow: | No |
| Start Indoors: | Yes. Start Indoors 7-9 weeks before your last spring frost date. |
| Plant Width: | 24 inches |
| Plant Spread: | 24 inches |
| Growth Speed: | Mid - Ready to harvest 70 to 80 days from transplant. Tricky to get a tomato by the 4th of July with these varieties. They are good mid-summer producers for most USDA Zones. |
| Germination Temperature: | 65-85 F |
| Pests and Diseases: | Common pests known to harm tomato plants, in general, include the tomato hornworm, cutworm, aphids, flea beetles, tomato fruit worms, and whiteflies. Also, watch for common diseases such as blossom end rot, fusarium wilt, powdery mildew, verticillium wilt, late blight, bacterial canker/spot, and tobacco mosaic virus. Most of these can be prevented by maintaining a regular watering schedule and avoiding overwatering. Regularly check your plants for pest damage throughout the season. For treating pest and disease problems, we recommend using an organic neem-based product. |
| Garden Size: | Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed |
| Tomato Use: | Salads, fresh eating, slicing |