Description
25 Seeds per pack
Siletz Tomato
Days to Maturity: 52-75 Days
Botanical Name: (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
Sun Requirements: Full sun. (In very hot climates they may benefit from light shade.)
Bred by Dr. James Baggett of Oregon State University and released in 1994, Siletz was developed specifically for cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for northern growers. This improved Oregon Spring type ripens earlier than many other slicing tomatoes and boasts a more vigorous plant, ensuring good harvests even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Siletz tomatoes are deep red, round, and slightly flattened at the poles, reaching 4-5 inches in diameter and weighing between 7-16 ounces. Nearly seedless, especially in the first harvests, their meaty flesh is smooth and blemish-free, with a thin skin that resists cracking. The flavor is mild with a slight tartness, making them a great choice for fresh eating and canning alike.
A determinate variety with some semi-determinate tendencies, Siletz grows to about 4.8 feet tall with a 16-20 inch spread. Though it concentrates its harvest over a shorter period like a determinate type, it may continue producing a bit longer in ideal conditions. While compact, it produces impressive yields and benefits from staking or tying for support. This adaptable tomato tolerates both drought and high heat, performing well in full sun. It is also well-suited to small gardens and large containers, such as half wine barrels.
Perfect for slicing onto sandwiches, tomato toasts, and fresh salads, Siletz also excels in soups and sauces. With high levels of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Disease Resistance: Verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt 1, and cracking.
Planting Instructions for Siletz Tomato Seeds
Start Siletz tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant the seeds ¼” deep in a sterile seed-starting mix. Germination typically occurs within 6-14 days when soil temperatures are between 70-90°F.
Once the seedlings develop their first true leaves, transplant them into 3-4” pots and place them in full light with cooler temperatures of 60-70°F. After hardening off, transplant the tomatoes outdoors into full sun, spacing them 18-30” apart in rows 3-4’ apart. If your tomato seedlings are tall and spindly, plant them deeper in the soil—the buried stems will sprout roots, strengthening the plant.
To help prevent blossom end rot, add 1 tablespoon of lime, ground oyster shells, or crushed eggshells to the bottom of the planting hole. The calcium will help build strong cell walls once the Siletz tomato plants begin producing fruit. For extra strength and nutrition, mix in 1 tablespoon of aged compost and 1 tablespoon of bone meal at the base of the hole before planting.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Siletz Tomato?
Siletz Tomato was bred by Dr. James Baggett of Oregon State University and released in 1994. It was specifically developed for cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for northern growers as well as southern gardeners who want a early harvest.
How would you describe the flavor profile of Siletz Tomato?
Siletz has a mild flavor with a slight tartness, making it a great option for both fresh eating and sauces. Its meaty texture and low seed content enhance its suitability for cooking.
What does Siletz Tomato look like?
This variety produces deep red, round tomatoes that are slightly flattened at the poles. They range from 4-5 inches in diameter and weigh between 7-16 ounces. The fruit is nearly seedless, meaty, smooth, and blemish-free, with a thin skin that resists cracking.
What are the growth habits and garden appeal of Siletz Tomato?
Siletz is a determinate variety with some semi-determinate tendencies, growing to about 4.8 feet tall with a 16-20 inch spread. It produces impressive yields over a concentrated period but may continue fruiting longer in ideal conditions. Compact yet vigorous, it benefits from staking and is well-suited to small gardens and large containers.
What climate conditions are ideal for growing Siletz Tomato?
Siletz thrives in full sun and is well-adapted to cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for northern growers. It also tolerates drought and high heat well.
What are the common culinary uses for Siletz Tomato?
Siletz tomatoes are perfect for slicing onto sandwiches, tomato toasts, and fresh salads. They also work well in soups, sauces, and canning due to their meaty texture and mild tartness.
How should Siletz Tomato be stored and practically used?
Store harvested Siletz tomatoes at room temperature until fully ripe, then refrigerate for longer freshness. Use them fresh for slicing or process them into sauces and canned goods for extended use.
What vitamins or nutrients does Siletz Tomato contain?
Siletz is rich in vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
Does Siletz Tomato have any notable disease resistance?
Yes, Siletz is resistant to verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt 1, and cracking, making it a hardy and reliable choice for gardeners.
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