The Green Zebra tomato is a unequalled and sapid heirloom variety that has gather popularity among gardeners and intellectual nourishment enthusiasts alike . This Lycopersicon esculentum variety was developed by Tom Wagner in the 1980s and is known for its outstanding appearance , with green and white-livered stripes that turn gold as the yield ripens .
Beyond its appearing , the Green Zebra tomato is also prize for its tangy and odorous flavor , making it a favorite among those who appreciate the taste of fresh , homegrown tomatoes . In this blog , we will explore the history , cultivation , and culinary uses of the Green Zebra tomato , and why it ’s worth sum to your garden and plate .
What is a Green Zebra tomato?
Green Zebra tomatoes are a unequalled diverseness of tomato that are known for their striking green and icteric striped appearing . They were first developed in the 1980s by Tom Wagner , an amateur breeder from Everett , Washington . The Green Zebra tomato is a small to medium - sized fruit , typically between 2 - 3 inches in diam , and has a more or less sourish and mellisonant look .
The Green Zebra Lycopersicon esculentum is a relatively new gain to the love apple phratry , and has apace gained popularity among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts likewise . Unlike other love apple that turn cherry when good , the Green Zebra love apple remain green even when to the full right . This makes it easy to identify when it is quick to be picked , as the stripes will become more marked and the yield will find more or less diffused to the touch .
One of the reasons that the Green Zebra Lycopersicon esculentum has become so democratic is because of its versatility in the kitchen . It can be used in a kind of dishes , from salad to salsas to sandwiches , and its unparalleled feel and coming into court lend a fun twist to any recipe . to boot , because they are small in sizing , Green Zebra tomatoes are perfect for nosh on their own or adding to charcuterie boards .
Overall , the Green Zebra tomato is a fun and flavorous accession to any garden or kitchen . Its unequalled appearance and taste sensation make it a standout ingredient , and its versatility in the kitchen means there are innumerous ways to enjoy it .
How to start Green Zebra tomato seeds
Starting tomatoes from seed is a cost - effective and rewarding way to grow your own love apple plants . To lead off , pick out the Lycopersicon esculentum multifariousness that befit your preferences and grow condition .
Fill semen tray or pots with a lightweight and well - drain seed starting mix , plant the come at the recommend depth , and allow adequate wet and warmth for germination .
Once the seedlings have grow their 2d set of true leafage , they can be transplanted into orotund container or individual pots . step by step acclimate the seedling to outdoor conditions before transplanting them into the garden .
By following these basic steps , you’re able to successfully begin tomato from seed and love a thriving harvest of homegrown tomato .
Additional Resource : Our comprehensive usher to start up tomatoes from seed
Growing & care
transplantation and caring for tomatoes outdoors involves a few essential steps . First , pick out a sunny location with well - drained soil . Prior to transplantation , harden off the seedling by gradually expose them to outdoor conditions .
dig up a golf hole slightly larger than the root ball of each seedling and plant them , burying the prow up to the first set of leaves . Water the seedling soundly after transplanting . Provide ordered watering , aim for 1 - 2 inch of water per week .
Stake or cage in the works for support and prune undetermined variety by take sucker . Monitor for pests and diseases , taking prompt action if necessary . By stick with these steps , you ’ll set your Lycopersicon esculentum plants up for healthy emergence and a fruitful harvest .
Additional Resource : How to transfer and handle for tomato plant outdoors
Common tomato pests and diseases
Tomatoes are susceptible to various pestilence and diseases that can affect their health and productivity . Some common Lycopersicon esculentum pestilence include aphids , tomato hornworms , whitefly , and cutworms . These pests can cause damage to leaves , stems , and yield , leading to reduced flora heartiness and yield .
to boot , Lycopersicon esculentum industrial plant can be move by diseases such as early blight , late blight , fusarium wilt , and verticillium wilt disease . These diseases can cause foliage discoloration , wilting , and fruit hogwash . right recognition and well-timed treatment are crucial to effectively manage these plague and disease and ensure the successful growth of tomato industrial plant .
Additional Resource : Comprehensive list of love apple diseases and pest and how to sterilize them
Common problems
The Green Zebra tomato is a unequaled and sapid multifariousness that is becoming increasingly popular among gardeners . However , like any other love apple miscellany , it can be susceptible to certain problems that can embarrass its growth and output . Here are some of the most common problems you may encounter when growing Green Zebra tomatoes and how to address them .
Blossom End Rot
peak end rot is a plebeian problem that affects many love apple varieties , admit Green Zebra Lycopersicon esculentum . This experimental condition is characterized by a dark , sink place at the bottom of the yield . It is do by a deficiency of calcium in the grime , which can be triggered by unpredictable lachrymation , nutrient dissymmetry , or soil that is too acidic .
To prevent blossom end rot , secure that your plant life receive consistent lacrimation and that the soil has a balanced pH level . you’re able to also supply calcium to the soil by utilize shell , bone meal , or a Ca - racy fertilizer .
Tomato horn worms
Tomato hornworms are bombastic , greenish caterpillars that can quick down the leaves and fruit of your Green Zebra love apple plant . These pests are most dynamic during the summer months and can be difficult to recognise due to their camouflaged appearance .
To control tomato hornworms , you’re able to handpick them off your plants or expend an constitutive pesticide . you’re able to also pull in natural predators , such as birds or parasitic wasps , to your garden to assist control the universe .
Early Blight
Early blight is a fungous disease that can affect the leave , stems , and fruit of your Green Zebra tomato plant . It is characterized by small , chocolate-brown spots that finally turn into big lesions . This disease thrives in warm and humid conditions and can spread quickly if left untreated .
To forbid other blight , ensure that your plants have adequate spacing and line circulation . you may also apply a fungicide or use constitutive methods , such as neem oil or a baking soda ash solution , to control the spread of the disease .
By being aware of these common problem and taking the necessary steps to keep and address them , you could enjoy a big harvest home of toothsome Green Zebra Lycopersicon esculentum .
Uses
Green Zebra tomatoes are a alone variety of tomato that are often sought after by avid gardener and food enthusiast . These tomato plant are typically used for a diverseness of culinary design due to their tart and slightly sweet sense of taste , as well as their distinctive green and icteric stripy appearance .
One of the most popular use for Green Zebra tomatoes is in salad . They add together a burst of savor and vividness to any salad , and can be chopped up and mixed with other vegetable or used as a topping . These tomatoes are also peachy for making fresh salsa or guacamole , as their seraphic and sourish taste twosome well with savoury ingredients like jalapenos or chili black pepper .
Green Zebra tomatoes are also normally used in alimentary paste looker and as topping for pizza . They can be diced and added to sauce or used as a garnish , lend a dad of color and flavor to any dish . to boot , they can be rib or grilled for a delicious side dish or added to sandwiches and wrapping for an extra burst of flavor .
Overall , Green Zebra love apple are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a salmagundi of smasher , from salads to pasta to sandwiches . Their unique gustatory modality and appearance make them a popular choice among foodies and gardener alike .
