Product Details
Xànthi Greek (Red Large Slicing/Salad Tomato)
Heritage: Greece (Northeastern Region)
In 2004 we were fortunate to obtain this special heirloom tomato just outside of Xànthi in Northeastern Greece from a kind older gentleman. Our translator said he was insistent that “his tomatoes were the best in the country, and that we should try growing them in our garden”. He said “they will be big and strong”! Well folks, he was right! We have continued to grow from those first original seeds ever since.
Thick stemmed plants produce slightly flattened fruit up to 3” (7.5cm) in diameter. Skin is bright red with a delicious juicy red interior. Fruit is lovely and firm. As for flavour, well it is not hard to imagine a Greek village salad made with cucumber, sweet peppers, blocks of Feta, and of course wedges of Xànthi tomato! Easy to grow, with good to average yields, even in our cooler Canadian climate. Semi-Determinant. Matures in 90-100 days. (310 seeds/g)
Largest Xànthi Tomato we grew: 11.8oz = 3/4 lb = 335g
Semi-Determinate plants grow a size midway between the determinate and indeterminate varieties, producing some fruit throughout the season, with more of their crop appearing at the end. These varieties are hard to classify due to their inconsistent growth habits, and behaviour when it comes to fruit bearing.
Tips for Growing Tasty Tomatoes!
Tomatoes are heat loving plants that can adapt themselves to almost any growing zone providing there is ample sunshine and the season is long enough to allow the fruits to fully mature. Start seeds indoors in small pots 6 weeks before last frost date by planting them just below the surface of the soil. As the weather warms, harden-off the plants by setting them outside in the sun for a few hours each day. When the ground has fully warmed and the season has stabilized transplant to a sunny area of the garden. Remove all yellow leaves and any buds or flowers that have formed. This allows the plant to concentrate on developing a good deep root system in its new home. Plant deep burying the stem up to the first set of leaves. Plants should be at least 12-18” (30-45cm) apart to allow for ample circulation and room to grow. Most tomatoes do best when support is provided either by using poles, cages or trellising. The most suitable companion plants for tomatoes are; asparagus, chives, onions, parsley, marigolds and carrots. Do not plant near potatoes, corn, turnips, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. Tomatoes usually germinate within 5-7days (75-95ºF/24-35ºC).
