Dark tomatoes are the best varieties

Who said that the familiar red and yellow tomatoes are the only and unique in their class of nightshade crops? More and more hearts (and stomachs) are conquering exotic dark tomatoes. Chocolate-brown, lilac, purple, black-brown tomatoes compare favorably with a higher content of sugary substances from their scarlet and sunny counterparts. In many varieties, the taste of the fruit leaves a spicy fruity aftertaste.

News from the world of dark-skinned tomatoes

What are they, the most delicious black varieties of tomatoes, is their color really close to the color of the night sky? Or is it just a gimmick of breeders naming new varieties?

A noble prince originally from China

A native of China, adapted by breeders to Russian climatic realities, the Black Prince tomato is a description of the variety in three words: mid-early, indeterminate, dessert. Until the fruits begin to ripen on the bush, it is no different from its counterparts. The same light green leaves, a strong stem, clusters with fruits. Unless each green tomato near the stalk is decorated with a darker uneven spot. During the ripening period, the fruit turns brown, then becomes burgundy-purple. The freer and more comfortable the plant lived, the more saturated color the dense peel of rounded fruits from 100 to 500 grams acquires. On the cut - paint of the same color, but a little lighter. Chambers with seeds with added sugar-white color. Favorable reviews about the Black Prince tomato indicate its high yield (from 4 kg per bush), immunity to late blight, excellent sweet and sour taste.

Life of the person of royal tomato blood

The history of life, description of the variety and characteristics of the Black Prince tomato for open ground begins with the peculiarity of the appearance of the first sprouts from seeds planted on seedlings - a little later than other varieties, by 10 days.After 21 days from the moment the seeds were planted in the soil, it is not worth waiting for new shoots, it remains to properly cultivate what has sprung up during this period. In the phase of 3-4 formed leaves, tomato seedlings are transplanted into containers with a soil layer of at least 15 cm, and preferably 20, to form a strong root system. They are relocated to the ground from mid-May to mid-June, depending on the climate of the region. The variety will not withstand even light frosts, if such a threat has arisen, plantings should be insulated with foil or reliable covering material.

The tomato is responsive to regular feeding, loosening the soil, rational watering. To preserve varietal qualities, the distance to other representatives of the nightshade should be at least 1.5-2 meters. Between plants of the same variety - at least 60 cm. The first collection of vegetables - 4 months after the germination of seeds. The variety is from tall, in favorable conditions it grows up to 2 meters in length. Timely pinching off excess shoots will improve the quality of the fruit and shorten the ripening period. The practice of forming a plant into one stem and two. In the second case, not only the main shoot is allowed to develop, but also the stepson, which appeared before the first brush. In areas with a short summer, 2, rarely 3 brushes are left for ripening, the rest are removed.

Truffles from Japan

The variety is a bit similar to the Black Prince in color and taste, judging by what reviews about the black Japanese truffle tomato are left by those familiar with it. Is that the color is a warmer shade and resembles chocolate brown. And the shape bears a distinct resemblance to an electric light bulb. About 5 kilograms of such "bulbs" weighing 100-200 g are harvested from one bush, which is quite good, but not a record yield for tomatoes. Medium early, 90-100 days before the technical maturity of the first fruits. A variety of thermophilic ones, with the onset of nighttime temperature drops at the end of summer, it can become capricious and get sick with late blight. In most areas, experienced gardeners pick unripe tomato fruits to protect them from decay. The taste of vegetables ripening artificially is no worse. Due to the dense texture of the pulp and strong peel, it is indispensable for preserving whole fruits.

The product of Japanese breeding black truffle tomato began to spread in our country in the last decade of the last century. It was then considered an exotic novelty in the seed market.

Currently, the Black Truffle tomato is successfully grown almost throughout the entire territory of Russia, but it shows its real ability to harvest only in greenhouses and film greenhouses.

Like a vine

From afar, a tomato Black cherry is not surprising to confuse with grapes, brushes are so densely strewn with small round burgundy-brown fruits. This variety is a real find for those who like to feast on truly sweet tomatoes, and even so attractive in appearance. The tomato, also called Black Cherry, is characterized as a mid-early (up to 120 days) vigorous variety. Designed for any type of cultivation.

Productivity - more than 5 kilograms of fruits, all as for selection: the same size, shape and color.

Of the features of the variety, the lateral shoots are more massive than the main stem, since it is they who bear the load of several brushes with the harvest. In some cases, the length of the main stem can exceed 2 meters; without additional reinforcement on the support, there is a danger of breaking, twisting and death of the plant. Of the minuses of care - almost daily monitoring of the condition: pinching, garter. From any excess moisture, the tomato skin begins to crack, which affects the presentation of the crop. Cherry tomatoes will decorate any dish, they are especially good pickled. Aesthetic pleasure is no less pleasant than the pleasure of taste.

Always exotic purple

Among the dark varieties - the largest, juicy and sweet - such reviews about the Chernomor tomato can be considered positive.If there are any dissatisfied with this variety of tomatoes, then only lovers of canning with whole fruits, since this variety is not at all suitable for it. But fresh, it pleases the taste buds with a spicy sweet, with a slight sourness taste. An important advantage is its good yield and average fruit ripening period. The mass of one weighty tomato usually starts at 300 grams. In shape, they are rounded, slightly flattened, ribbed. Three or four clusters are formed on one plant, on which 4-5 fruits will ripen. In the phase of biological maturity, they become purple-violet. On average, the yield of one bush is 3.5-4 kg. The variety is vigorous, indeterminate. Resistance to late blight is weak, regular examination and timely treatment will save you from disease.

Like black currant

A slight hint of ripe plum taste, the black bunch of tomatoes owes to the anthocyanin pigment, the presence of which in the fruits (and not in the leaves and stems, as in other nightshades) allows them to turn into a truly dark color. This variety of tomatoes in the phase of biological maturity has a purple-black color of small (30-70 g) fruits. They are located on a simple brush, up to 10 pieces. There are so many such brushes on the plant that the total yield from one bush exceeds 6 kg. The height of one bush is 150 cm, the foliage is average. The vegetative period of the variety is 80-90 days. Fruits are dense, do not crack and after long storage, transportable. Inside is dark red, with two seed chambers.

Pied tomatoes

If you have a desire to grow something exotic, you can look towards varieties of tomatoes of an unusual color. Such as the Black Moor tomato - the description of the variety consists of the following characteristics:

• mid-early, semi-determinant, with a growing season of 110-120 days;
• the growth of the bush is about 100 cm, under the film - up to 150;
• forms clusters of an average of 10 fruits (in special cases up to 20 pieces);
• the mass of one tomato is about 50 grams of egg-shaped;
• at biological maturity, the fruit acquires a dark burgundy color with large strokes of a darker shade.

Thanks to its dense, thick skin, it is suitable for all types of preservation. The taste is traditional sweet and sour. Productivity from 2 to 3 kg per bush.

Popular with blacks

Numerous reviews of the Black Baron tomato, the most popular of the dark varieties of tomatoes, contain enthusiastic epithets for the taste of the fruit: juicy, sweet, tender, piquant, aromatic. The productivity of the nightshade crop also deserves all praise. A powerful bush 150-200 cm high under dense foliage hides 3-4 clusters with round-flat ribbed fruits weighing 200-300 g. In a cluster there can be 3-5 pieces. Ripe tomatoes are of a beautiful, even red-brown color. Heavy fruits pull the branches of the plant down, so they are strengthened by tying them to stakes. From the emergence of seedlings to the collection of the first tomatoes - about 120 days, which makes it a medium early variety. This variety of tomatoes has good disease immunity. It responds to timely feeding with organic and mineral fertilizers with a bountiful harvest.

A gourmet for a sweet tooth

Dark varieties of tomatoes generally have a high sugar content, but the Black Gourmet tomato is the leader in terms of the percentage of sugary substances in its fruits.

The same quality is also the main disadvantage of the variety, since the ripe tomato becomes too soft for pickling. And the shelf life of such tomatoes is short. But, thanks to the dessert taste, it is ideal for fresh consumption. And the presence of antioxidants in fruits makes it indispensable in the dietary menu. Suitable for greenhouse cultivation. Mid-season variety. The shape of the fruit is round. The mass of one tomato is from 100 to 150 grams, dark red or brownish red. On a plant, 3-5 pieces are collected in brushes. The yield is good, 4-5 kg ​​per bush.

Bison are different: yellow, black, red

The Bison variety means nightshades of different colors: red, yellow, pink, black. Among all representatives of the species, reviews of the Black Bison tomato primarily indicate the extraordinary power of not only the main stem, but also the lateral shoots. The plant needs such strength in order to withstand the weight of many round, ribbed fruits weighing 300-500 grams at the stalk. The color of tomatoes is even, reddish-purple, sometimes with a purple tint. The height of the bush is 180-200 cm. Fruit ripening period is medium late. Tomato paste and sauces from this variety have a delicate fruity aftertaste. It works well in salads and other vegetable dishes. Unsuitable for preservation - thin peel cracks from mechanical and temperature effects.

Larger than a dark bison - only a black elephant

With its considerable size, the Black Elephant tomato fully justifies its name. Rounded flattened fruits of this variety have a weight of 200 to 350 grams. The color at the moment of biological maturity is black-brown. It is classified as medium early, 115-120 days for fruit growth and development. About 8 kg of tomato harvest is achieved from a square meter of plantings.

Travel from island to mainland

Sometimes also referred to as "Black Crimean", the Black Crimea tomato got its name from the place of birth of the variety. Medium early species, it takes 80-90 days for the growing season. Possesses excellent immunity to all diseases of nightshade crops. At home, it boasts huge (from 500 grams) fruits of black-brown color. In more severe conditions of the regions, north of Crimea, the mass of fruits is close to the maximum indicators in the greenhouse cultivation method. Juicy, fresh, aromatic pulp is used to make tomato juice when grown on an industrial scale. In a private household, the harvest of tomatoes (from 6 to 8 kg per bush) is used for salads, side dishes, soups, smoothies and juice. When canned, it loses its visual appeal, but not great taste.

Scope of application of dark tomatoes: many pros and one minus

The cultivation technique for all varieties of tomatoes is approximately the same. Differs in the timing of the main work and harvesting (from the rate of fruit ripening). The scope of the fruit depends on the imagination and culinary preferences of the owner. Dark-colored varieties of tomatoes in this case are no exception. Large and small, the best black tomatoes are eaten fresh, stewed, boiled, baked. The only way of cooking, in which they sometimes show themselves not from the best side, is canning. Due to the weak thin peel, the fruits quickly lose their shape, and with it their attractiveness. But this only drawback is far from being a reason to abandon the cultivation of tomatoes that are unusual in all respects. Also see the article: Tomato seedlings: how to grow and care for seedlings?

The varietal variety of tomatoes is amazing today. In addition to red and pink tomatoes, breeders have bred varieties with yellow, orange and even black fruits! If you have not tried planting black tomatoes on your site yet, it's time to do it. Not only their appearance, but also their taste and aroma are worthy of flattering assessment. Caring for black tomatoes is the most common. But their benefits for the body can hardly be overestimated.

Features of black tomatoes, benefits

Strictly speaking, there are no truly black tomatoes. This is the name for tomatoes with a very dark color - blue, purple, brown, dark red. Fruits vary in size, from small cherry blossoms to giant ones. Their shape is also varied.

On a note!

There is a myth that black tomatoes are genetically modified, but this is not true. This fruit color is achieved as a result of selection from varieties with a normal color.

The advantage of black tomatoes is their rich flavor.This is due to the presence in the pulp of a high content of sugars and organic acids. A bright aroma is also characteristic of these tomatoes. The coloring pigment anthocyanin is found in them in large quantities. This substance has an antitumor effect on the human body, strengthens the immune system, prevents aging, and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

• Thanks to the lycopene contained in the fruits, the activity of the prostate gland in men is normalized.
• Provitamin A has a higher concentration in black tomatoes, eating the fruits regularly can improve your eyesight.
• The complex of nutrients contained in tomatoes helps to increase the tone in the body, activates sexual function.
• Black tomatoes can rightfully be called an aphrodisiac. Be sure to include them in your list of foods that should be on your table.

The best varieties of black tomatoes

According to the method of cultivation, black tomatoes are divided into those that are grown in the greenhouse, and those that grow well in the open field. You can buy seeds of this crop at gardening stores. Especially rare varieties will have to be ordered on the Internet, since they cannot always be found in the retail network.

For growing in a greenhouse

In the greenhouse, it is possible to get a richer and earlier harvest of tomatoes, especially if there is a possibility of heating. In greenhouse conditions, seedlings can be planted earlier than in open ground. Here the plants are protected from frost and adverse weather conditions. We bring to your attention varieties of black tomatoes that are recommended for growing in a greenhouse:

"Black Crimea"

Variety Black Crimea

It takes 69 to 80 days for this variety to mature. He is described as mid-early. The variety was bred for greenhouse maintenance. The bushes are definitive, they can grow up to 1.8 m. The tomato is very resistant to diseases. The shape of the fruit is flat-round, with ribbing. The tomatoes are very large, the average weight of the fruits is 500 g. Initially, their color is green-brown; when ripe, the tomatoes turn black. They are eaten fresh, used to prepare salads and juice. The crop cannot be stored for a long time.

Reviews for this variety are positive. Among the advantages, mention is made of high yield and special taste.

"De barao black"

De barao black variety

The variety is intended for cultivation in tall greenhouses, belongs to the mid-late species. 115-130 days pass before the crop appears. Indeterminate bushes can grow up to 3 meters in height. The tomato does not get sick, it gives good yields.

From one bush, you can collect 6-7 kg of fruits, sometimes more. Fruits are round in shape, dark purple, with an average weight of 40-70 g. They can be stored for a long time, they tolerate transportation remarkably. Most often, tomatoes are used for conservation, but they are good fresh. Reviews suggest that the variety is ideal for harvesting for the winter.

"Bison black"

Black Bison variety

You can grow these tomatoes in a greenhouse and in the open field. The variety is determinant. The height of the bushes varies from 1.5 to 1.8 m. The ripening period is medium late. Powerful bushes need a garter and removal of stepchildren. Fruits are ribbed, flat-round in shape. Tomatoes have an average weight of 300 g. They are dark purple in color.

The pulp is sweet and juicy, with a fruity aftertaste. The fruits are not suitable for salting due to cracking. They are consumed fresh, used in salads and other dishes. You can prepare juice and various sauces from these tomatoes.

On the forums, this variety is praised for its yield and taste, cracking is mentioned among the shortcomings.

"Black pineapple"

Black pineapple variety

In the middle lane and more northern regions, it is better to grow a tomato in a greenhouse. An exotic variety with good yields. Bushes of an indeterminate type, with an average ripening period. The tomato grows to a height of 1.2-1.4 m.Plants need support and pinching. It is recommended to form a bush of 2-3 stems.

The fruits are very large, purple in color. The weight of each tomato can reach 500 g. The pulp is fleshy, with a pronounced taste and a small number of seeds. The crop can be easily transported. Tomatoes are eaten fresh, used for making salads and various snacks. Due to their large size, the fruits are not suitable for canning.

Reviews of summer residents highlight the beautiful appearance and sweet taste of the fruit. Site owners call this species a favorite among other varieties.

"Black truffle"

Black truffle variety

The fruits of this variety look like a real exotic because of their unusual color and shape. The variety belongs to the indeterminate medium early varieties. The ripening period is 105-115 days. The variety is resistant to bacterial and viral infections.

Brought it out for cultivation in the open field for the southern regions. In the middle lane, it is better to plant seedlings in a greenhouse. The fruits have a universal purpose, they can be eaten fresh, added to salads and canned.

The pulp is very dense, so they do not make juice from these tomatoes. From one plant, you can get 5-6 kg of fruits. The forums praise all varieties of "truffle" except red.

"Black Baron"

Variety Black Baron

It is considered one of the tastiest among the dark-fruited tomatoes. Tomatoes of this variety are best grown in a greenhouse. The fruit is described as sweet, ideal for fresh consumption and juicing. Strong bushes need to be formed and fed to get a rich harvest.

The variety belongs to the mid-season, indeterminate species. Bushes can grow up to 2 m tall. The cluster is formed from 3-5 medium-sized fruits. Each of them weighs from 150 to 250 g. Tomatoes are round, slightly flattened in shape. Ribbing is present near the peduncle. The color of ripe fruits is closer to a chocolate shade. The pulp has a bright taste. The tomatoes are sweet, almost honey-colored. A universal variety, tomatoes can be eaten fresh and processed.

Summer residents love this variety for the fact that it does not require maintenance, gives an excellent harvest and has a wonderful taste.

"Black Gourmet"

Variety Black Gourmet

New variety registered in 2015. The tomato belongs to the indeterminate, mid-season species. The bushes grow up to 1.8 m and form clusters in which 10 fruits or more are collected. It is recommended to form a bush into one or two stems with a mandatory garter. The variety was bred for cultivation in a greenhouse. Fruits are round in shape, each weighing 80-110 g. The pulp is dark, multi-chambered, with large seeds.

The fruiting period is long. With good care, the bushes give a bountiful harvest. Tomatoes are used for fresh food, for preserving and making juices. According to reviews on the forums, the variety deserves attention due to its yield and excellent taste.

"Dark chocolate"

Variety Dark chocolate

The variety belongs to the group of cherry tomatoes. The growing season lasts 111-120 days. It is an indeterminate tomato intended for greenhouse cultivation only. Tomatoes do not require special care, they are not susceptible to diseases typical of tomatoes. The outer color of the fruit is brown with a purple tint.

The cluster consists, on average, of 12 small fruits, the maximum weight of which is 35 g. The pulp is juicy, sweet in taste, with fruity notes. The variety was bred as a salad variety, but it is quite suitable for conservation.

A bountiful harvest can be stored well and can be transported for a long time. The variety is praised for its excellent seed germination, pleasant fruit taste and long shelf life.

"Kumato"

Kumato variety

Tomatoes are grown all over the world. It belongs to the mid-season species. From the moment of emergence of shoots to harvest, 120 days pass. The bushes are indeterminate, they can grow up to 2 meters or more.The crown must be pinched at a height of two meters in order to improve the quality of the fruit.

The tomato is grown in a greenhouse, or using a shelter outdoors. One bush gives up to 8 kg of fruits, the average weight of which is 80 g. Tomatoes are uniform in size, round or slightly oval in shape. The color of ripe fruits is chocolate, greenish stripes may be present. The pulp is tender, but dense. The taste contains fruity notes. The harvested crop tolerates storage and transportation well.

The variety has a dessert purpose, the fruits are eaten fresh. Can be used for making sauces, pastas and various dishes.

Reviews of the variety are contradictory, many are confused by the taste, which is not similar to the traditional taste of tomatoes. Some people compare these tomatoes to fruit, others they resemble candy. Among the advantages, a long shelf life is noted.

"Indigo Rose"

Indigo Rose Variety

Late ripening variety. In the open field, the bushes grow up to 1 m, in the greenhouse the maximum growth is 1.5 m. Greenhouse cultivation is recommended in the middle lane, otherwise the tomatoes will not have time to ripen. To obtain the greatest yield, the bush is formed into 1-2 stems. Ripe tomatoes are black with a blue tint. The fruits are collected in small clusters, the weight of the tomatoes ranges from 30 to 70 g.

The pinkish sweet pulp contains a lot of seeds. Because of their thin skin, tomatoes are not suitable for canning. Summer residents note the good resistance of the variety to late blight and the exotic appearance of the fruit. The disadvantages of this tomato are considered to be its weak taste and late ripening.

"Black Sun"

Variety Black sun

The variety was bred by breeders from Italy and was registered in 2009. Ripe fruits have a rich black skin color and red pulp. The average fruit weight is 70 g. In Russia, this tomato is a novelty and is suitable for those who like to experiment with planting new varieties. In his homeland, the tomato is called the "elixir of youth."

The pulp of these tomatoes is juicy, with a lot of seeds. It is best to eat the fruits fresh; during cooking, most of the vitamins are lost. It is necessary to grow this variety in a greenhouse, as it was bred for the warm Mediterranean climate.

The varieties of black tomatoes have not yet become widespread. Moreover, there is a reason to plant them in your greenhouse and enjoy the unusual look and taste of these useful fruits.

Open ground varieties

The size of the plot does not always make it possible to equip a greenhouse on it. In this case, you need to take a closer look at varieties intended for cultivation in the open field. For tomatoes that are sensitive to low temperatures, a film cover can be used in the spring. In the middle lane, the following varieties of black tomatoes are suitable for growing in the garden:

"Black Prince"

Variety Black Prince

A maintenance free plant capable of producing an excellent harvest. The bush is medium-sized, spreading, requires a garter. The variety belongs to tomatoes of a quick ripening period, is grown in seedlings, can grow in open ground. Seeds are sown at the end of February.

The first ovaries begin to form in mid-June, or a little later. The color of the fruits is dark red, the weight of each of them can be from 150 to 450 g. Regular watering is very important for a rich harvest. The fruit does not tolerate transportation well due to its thin skin. Tomatoes of this variety are great for making salads, sauces, juice.

According to reviews, seed germination is high, seedlings can be grown without much difficulty, tomatoes delight with good taste and a bountiful harvest

"Black Moor"

Variety Black Moor

Mid-season semi-determinant variety. It is versatile in the way of cultivation, It is suitable both for greenhouses and for planting in a garden. The harvest can be expected in 115-125 days from the moment of germination. In the open field, the bushes grow up to 1 meter, in the greenhouse the maximum growth is 1.5 m.Fruits are combined in clusters of 7-10 pieces.

Needs pruning stepsons. Fruit weight does not exceed 50 g. These tomatoes are characterized by a dark red color, they have an oval shape and a dense skin. The pulp is sweet, not subject to cracking. The fruits are very tasty and quickly eaten fresh, but also suitable for conservation.

Reviews characterize the variety as plentifully fruiting, responsive to feeding. Tomatoes ripen perfectly in boxes, do not disappear, they are tasty fresh and canned.

"Black Icicle"

Variety Black Icicle

The variety belongs to the indeterminate medium early species. The growing season of tomato lasts 90-110 days. Produces a good harvest outdoors and under film. The cluster is formed from 6-9 medium and large fruits. When growing, it is recommended to leave 3-4 stems. The tomato is well adapted to unfavorable weather conditions and is almost not susceptible to disease.

The reviews speak favorably about the variety's ability to actively set fruit. Tomato growers praise it for its sweet, delicate flavor and versatility.

"Black Pear"

Black pear variety

The variety managed to gain fame and became popular. It is intended for outdoor cultivation. The tomato is mid-season, indeterminate, versatile in use. Requires pinning. The fruits are eaten fresh, canned, used for cooking and various preparations.

From sowing to harvesting, you will have to wait 110-113 days. In the process of growth, powerful bushes are formed, growing up to 1.6-1.8 m. Tomatoes have a pear-shaped shape and an average weight of 55-80 g. When fully ripe, the color becomes brown. The fruits do not crack, they tolerate transportation well.

Summer residents talk about the average yield and taste of tomatoes. Everyone notes the long storage period for the fruits of this variety.

"Black bunch"

Variety Black bunch

In appearance, the fruit of this variety resembles giant black currant berries. Tomato belongs to hybrid, indeterminate, early maturing varieties. From the moment of germination to harvest, 80 days pass. This hybrid is grown both outdoors and in a greenhouse.

The maximum height of the bushes reaches 1.5 m. The leaves have a diamond-shaped shape unusual for tomatoes. Up to 10 medium-sized fruits are present on one hand. The hybrid is resistant to tomato diseases and has a good yield. You can get up to 6 kg of tomatoes from one bush. Their average weight is 50-70 grams. The pulp is fleshy and dark red in color. The taste of tomatoes slightly resembles a plum. They can be eaten fresh and canned.

Reviews speak of the delicious taste and attractive appearance of the fruit. They are used to decorate dishes and in salads. It rarely comes to conservation, delicious fruits are quickly eaten.

"Chernomor"

Variety Chernomor

The variety belongs to the mid-season varieties, gives high yields. Can be grown outdoors and indoors. The type of bush is indeterminate, the maximum plant height is 1.5 m, it requires a garter. The fruits have a flat-round shape with pronounced ribbing, their average weight is about 300 g. The color of ripe tomatoes is burgundy with a purple tint.

The fruits are distinguished by a rich sweet taste with the presence of a slight sourness. The dense skin prevents the tomatoes from cracking. The crop is well preserved and can be easily transported. The fruits can be picked at the stage of technical maturity, they will acquire a bright color and rich taste during storage.

According to summer residents, tomatoes delight with their size and taste, the variety gives good yields. Of the minuses, they indicate the susceptibility of tomato to late blight.

"Gypsy"

Gypsy variety

The variety is recommended for use in salads. The tomato can be grown outdoors and in greenhouses. The bushes are determinate, in the open field they grow up to 85-110 cm, in the greenhouse the plants become taller.The fruits are not large, but there are quite a few of them on the bush. The variety does not require a garter. Fruits are round in shape, with an average weight of 100-120 g, but can be larger.

The pulp is firm, sweet, slightly sour. From one bush, you can get 5 kg of fruit. The variety is suitable for long-term storage, perfectly tolerates transportation. On the forms, they note a high yield and a pleasant taste of the fruit. Many have grown this variety of tomatoes many times, considering it the best.

Before planting seedlings in open ground, it is necessary to apply fertilizers to the soil. Do not use low-lying areas or areas with clay soil for planting. When growing, tomatoes love the sun, but drafts are undesirable. Seedlings are planted in the morning or evening hours, when there is no scorching sun.

Black-fruited exotic tomatoes: video

Some may ask: why would they plant black tomatoes if they already have their favorite red varieties? Given the significant benefits of black-fruited tomatoes, take the risk of planting them at least as an experiment. After all, you can only evaluate something by trying it. Perhaps one of the above varieties will become your favorite for years to come.

Original varieties of black tomatoes are in high demand among gardeners. Strictly speaking, they are not black, but painted in rich dark shades of various colors - maroon, purple, brown.

These unusual vegetables were obtained not by genetic modification, but by traditional crossing of various wild and cultivated forms.

Distinctive features of chokeberry tomatoes

Choke varieties stand out among other tomatoes with a special color, piquant taste and a specific set of nutrients.

Anthocyanin coloration

An intense dark shade of the fruit is given by special organic pigments - anthocyanins. Modern science suggests that these natural substances have biological activity and may be beneficial to human health.

Photo: Variety De Barao black

The benefits of anthocyanins:

• improve the barrier function of the gastrointestinal tract, reduce inflammation;
• reduce the risk of developing tumors of the esophagus, intestines and other organs;
• have a positive effect on the prostate gland and male health in general;
• have a beneficial effect on vision;
• reduce oxidative damage to cells, blood vessels.

It is likely that eating natural foods rich in anthocyanins slows down the overall aging process in humans. In addition, dark fruits contain a wide range of vitamins, organic compounds and minerals typical for all tomatoes (vitamins A and C, lycopene, rubidium, etc.).

Potential harm

The benefits and harms of black-fruited varieties are a matter of study. The danger occasionally arises only for people prone to allergies.

Their body (especially children) can react negatively to both anthocyanins and the poisonous glycoside solanine, which is present in small amounts in unripe tomatoes. Ripe fruits are less allergenic.

Specific taste

Photo: Kumato cultivar

Most black-fruited varieties have a different ratio of organic acids and sugars (glucose, sucrose) than other tomatoes. They are especially sweet, with a fruity-spicy aftertaste.

To some it seems unusual, but to others it delights.

Cooking use

Black tomatoes add a special piquancy to fresh vegetable salads, interesting for decorating various dishes. They are also excellent in salting, especially when filled with sweet marinades (including those with spicy cloves or carrot tops).

You can also get a delicious juice. Salad preparations from a mixture of multi-colored vegetables, laid in jars with contrasting layers, look beautiful and appetizing. Black tomato jam is original to taste.

And cherry is dried, getting a product that resembles raisins.

Varietal variety of black tomatoes

No vegetable can boast such a variety as tomato.He is able to make a vegetable grower an enthusiastic collector who receives aesthetic pleasure. In recent years, the list of black-fruited varieties has been significantly replenished, and some look especially exotic.

Photo: Variety Striped Chocolate

The palette of peel shades is striking: it is burgundy-brown, greenish-brown, chocolate, purple, bluish, striped.

In most forms, the intensity of the dark color increases with ripening, but in some, on the contrary, it changes towards the red spectrum.

Interestingly, the flesh sometimes repeats the color of the peel, but it can also be contrasting scarlet or greenish in the cut.

There are no restrictions on the size and shape of the fruit. There are heavyweights and cherry, spherical and elongated, pear or plum-shaped, simple varieties and hybrids. Each has its own shades when describing color and taste. The choice is great.

For open ground

Semi-determinant and determinant black tomatoes are planted in street ridges and greenhouses. They are unpretentious, ripen well in the bud. Direct sunlight makes them very healthy and nutritious.

Black Moor

The variety has long been loved by gardeners for its unpretentiousness and high taste. It adapts successfully to any agricultural area. Medium-sized shrubs are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Abundant clusters bear 12-18 cocktail-type plum tomatoes (weighing 35-50 g). Their density is ideal for whole-fruit pickling. Coloring - reddish chocolate.

Vranac F1

Ultra-early ripening hybrid with compact, low bushes. The first ovary grows after the 5th leaflet. The clusters bear a dozen of spherical cherry-like fruits (20 g). The reddish skin is covered with wide brown stripes. The pulp is firm, sweet.

Long-term storage, high salting qualities, resistance to pathogens are the valuable qualities of this hybrid.

Chocolate bunny

An early amateur variety of one meter in height with oval tomatoes weighing 35-45 g. The skin and flesh are red-brown. Taste qualities are excellent both fresh and salted.

Gardeners like its unpretentiousness, drought and disease tolerance, long fruiting period.

For greenhouses

This group includes indeterminate plants that are more convenient to grow indoors. They are also suitable for street beds, if you build high supports. Mid-season varieties are suitable for open ground in the southern regions; in the Moscow region, in the Urals and in Siberia, they fully realize their potential in greenhouses.

The largest black tomato varieties are poured to their maximum size in greenhouse conditions.

Black Prince

It is one of the oldest black chokeberry varieties with an excellent reputation.

Tomatoes are spherical, in the first cluster they sometimes grow up to half a kilogram, then - 250-350 g each, sugary. The taste and color are almost chocolatey.

Crimean black (Black Crimea)

A sprawling bush requires pinching and shaping. Ripening dates are mid-early in the southern regions and medium in the Non-Black Earth Region. The average weight of fruits is 200-300 g, but in the first clusters they are larger.

When fully ripe, they become two-colored: a reddish-chocolate bottom and a greenish-brown "cap" on top. Burgundy pulp with green veins, balanced in juiciness and density.

Black baron

Chocolate brown lettuce tomatoes - slightly ribbed, round-flat. Average weight - 250 g. Taste - dessert.

Japanese truffle black

Recoil from a bush - up to 4 kg. Fleshy pear-shaped fruits weighing 100 g ripen in clusters of 5-6 pieces. Great in salting.

Fresh ones lie until January, while their sweetness increases.

De Barao black

This is a variant of a popular old variety with oval brownish tomatoes weighing 60 g each. They are perfectly stored, dense in salting. Plants are unpretentious, fruit successfully in the open field, even with a little shade.

Icicle black

Amateur form of Ukrainian origin with beautiful finger fruits. They weigh 90 g each, arranged in brushes of 6-8 pieces on tall, branched bushes.

The pulp is dark, not watery. High quality is noted for whole-fruit canning.

Cherry

Perhaps it is the small black tomatoes (cherry) that are the most delicious and savory.

Chocolate pearls

Pear-shaped cherries weighing 18 g ripen on the vine even in the northern regions. Tall bushes need a garter and pinching, complex feeding. The variety does not get sick even in a rainy summer.

Cherry black

Dark-burgundy "berries" weighing 15-20 g with long tassels hang from two-meter bushes. The ripening period is medium early.

Cherry Negro F1

Ultra-early maturing unpretentious hybrid for indoor and outdoor. In a brush there are ten to one and a half oval tomatoes weighing 30 g each. Color - chocolate with greenish stripes.

Hybrids of black tomatoes from the Semko agricultural company are highly resistant to a complex of diseases.

Congo F1

Greenhouse long-leaved hybrid. Disease tolerance is high. Dark chocolate-colored cherry balls weigh 25 g each and can be stored for a long time.

The sweetest

In terms of taste, these fruits are closer to fruits and berries than to vegetables. A real delicacy for gourmets, as evidenced by numerous admiring reviews of gardeners from different regions of Russia and the Near Abroad.

Marshmallow in chocolate

The indeterminant of the average ripening period. Tomatoes are spherical, up to 150 g, flattened at the top and bottom, burgundy-chocolate on the outside and greenish on the inside.

Brown sugar

Medium late greenhouse indeterminant with dark-burgundy fruits weighing 150 g each. They are round-flat, slightly ribbed. The yield is long lasting.

Watermelon

Medium early variety for indoor use. Brownish ribbed tomatoes weigh 150 g each. One bush brings up to 3 kg.

Ivan da Marya F1

A hybrid from the Tomatoes-Fruits series from the breeder Lyubov Myazina. Indeterminate hybrid with large purple-brown fruits, fleshy and sugary. Ripening time is average.

Sweet bunch of chocolate

Early maturing tall variety. Branched brushes bear 15-20 globular brownish tomatoes, weighing 35 g each. They are very dense, lying, almost honey-like in taste.

The most productive

• Ashkelon F1
• Viagra
• Burnt sugar
• Raj Kapoor
• Black plum
• Forte Akko F1

Early ripening

• Vranac F1
• Burnt sugar
• Chocolate cream
• Forte Akko F1
• Black Pearl F1
• Cherry Negro F1

Undersized

• Vranac F1

Late blight resistant

• Ashkelon F1
• Vranac F1
• Sweet bunch of chocolate
• Forte Akko F1
• Black cream
• Chocolate pearls

For the middle lane

• Adjutant F1
• Negro
• Black Russian
• Black elephant
• Chocolate

For the Urals and Siberia

• Vranac F1
• Burnt sugar (Caramel)
• Chocolate bunny
• Chocolate pearls

New items

• Adjutant F1
• Azure Giant F1
• Monisto chocolate
• Daddy's treat F1
• Octopus cream chocolate F1
• Forte Akko F1
• Black Galaxy and Black Bunch F1 (Blackest Tomatoes)

Other vegetables with a brownish and purple color are rich in useful anthocyanins - bell peppers, asparagus beans, onions, cabbage.

Black tomatoes have been grown for a long time, for example, some varieties were created in the 50s of the last century by Soviet scientists. These tomatoes are common vegetable varieties that have been created by crossing some wild varieties of tomatoes.

Black tomatoes - varieties

Very often in the Internet you can stumble upon information that black tomato varieties are genetically modified, but this is not entirely true. The fact is that the State Register of Breeding Plants contains many different black-fruited tomato varieties that were bred by breeding. More details about this unusual type of tomato will be discussed in this article.

In the photo are black tomatoes

Description of varieties

The main feature of this type of tomato is its unusual color. It is worth noting that absolutely black tomatoes do not exist in nature, they are only called so. Brown, blue, cherry and other dark-colored tomatoes are one size fits all. Fruit sizes can also vary depending on the variety. You can find small purple cherry tomatoes or large pear-shaped tomatoes. If we talk about growing black tomatoes, then this process is no different from growing ordinary tomatoes. The same requirements for watering, fertilization and protection from diseases or insects. The only difference is the high resistance of plants to the influence of external factors, but about the care and cultivation a little later.

Black tomatoes

There are black tomatoes with amazing taste.

In addition to their unusual color, black tomatoes are distinguished by their rich taste. When compared with most varieties of red-fruited tomatoes, it is much more pronounced. This can be explained by the content of a large amount of acids and sugars. These components not only create a unique taste, but also strengthen the human immune system, which is important.

Indigo Rose Tomato is the first variety of tomato with a purple color of fruit, obtained at the University of Oregon, USA by Professor Jim Myers of the Department of Horticulture

Their advantages

The exotic appearance has made black tomatoes a very popular vegetable to grow, but even those people who have tried black tomatoes at least once often give up regular tomatoes.

Black tomatoes are not only beautiful, but also healthy

On a note! As mentioned earlier, black tomatoes are considered more beneficial to the body than regular red ones. First of all, this is due to the antioxidant effect, which has a positive effect on the work of the brain and heart, and with the regular use of black tomatoes, the condition of the skin improves, and oxidative processes are inhibited in the cells.

Black tomatoes differ from ordinary ones only in their color and taste.

In addition, black tomatoes have other beneficial properties - in particular, they:

• increase appetite;
• accelerate metabolic processes in the body, which contributes to weight loss;
• improve vision;
• relieve puffiness;
• strengthen the immune system.

There are many different varieties of black tomatoes, which gives gardeners a wide variety of choices. And before you start planting these tomatoes in your summer cottage, you need to familiarize yourself with their main varieties.

Black Prince

The most common varieties

Thanks to the work of breeders, since the 2000s, many varieties of this type of tomato have been bred, differing from each other in color, size and shape of the fruit. Each variety has its own characteristics, but it will take a very long time to list all of them. It's easier to choose the most popular varieties. You can buy seeds at your regular gardening store in your city, but there are also rare varieties that can only be found on the Internet.

Table. The most popular varieties of black tomatoes.

Chocolate bunny	Cherry tomatoes, combining the best qualities of multicolored and small tomatoes. This is a non-hybrid plant, which ripens in the second half of July. The height of the bushes can reach 130 cm, but the stems grow quite strong and spreading. Therefore, when leaving, you need to carry out a pinch and a garter. The weight of one fruit is not more than 40-50 g. This variety is often used for canning due to the fact that the peel remains intact during heat treatment.
Black elephant	Such a loud name does not mean any unrealistic sizes of fruits and bushes of this variety. The weight of a dark brown tomato does not exceed 320 g, and the length of the bushes is 1.4 m. This variety of tomatoes differs in that the fruits have a slightly sour taste.
Black moor	This is a small mid-season tomato variety that grows up to 1.5 m in height.Fruit weight is about 50 g, and each brush brings up to 18-20 pieces. This variety of tomatoes is perfect for beginner gardeners, since the plant is considered not very whimsical in terms of care, although it always gives a rich harvest.
Paul Robson	It belongs to one of the oldest varieties of black tomatoes, which breeders bred about 70 years ago. It got its name in honor of the famous singer from the United States. The variety is distinguished by its large fruit weight, which can reach 300 g.
Gypsy	A low-growing variety of tomatoes, the bushes of which do not grow more than 1 m in height. Differs in fleshy fruits of 130-150 g, having a round shape. The composition of tomatoes also contains various minerals and vitamins, which makes them not only tasty, but also useful for the body. Fruit color is brownish-red.
Black Prince	A well-known variety of tomatoes, the bushes of which can grow up to 2.3 m in height, which is why caring for them includes a mandatory garter. Frequent watering and regular treatment against various diseases is not for this variety. The fruits can grow up to 300 g, while they have a rather sweet taste.
Black pear	Refers to mid-season varieties. Differs in a pear-shaped fruit, which makes this variety very popular among summer residents. The pulp of tomatoes is quite dense, so they tolerate transportation well. The color is maroon, sometimes brown. The Black Pear is used for canning, although it can be eaten fresh as well. The fruits of this variety reach 100 g, and the plant height is 1.7 m. The pulp of tomatoes contains a large amount of carotene, almost the same as in carrots.
Viagra	It is a mid-early variety of tomatoes that perfectly resists various diseases, including cladosporiosis and others. This variety is excellent for growing not only in a greenhouse, but also outdoors. It got its name because of the positive effect on the male reproductive system.

Tomatoes Black Galaxy

Tomatoes Black sun (black sun), obtained by Italian scientists, even blacker than Israeli

Indigo Rose - the blackest tomato in the world

How to grow black tomatoes

Once you have decided on the choice of a suitable tomato variety, you can start growing. The next part of the article will help you with that.

Soil preparation

The composition of the potting mix must be adjusted depending on when the plant begins to ripen. Add a small amount of sand and humus to the soil before sowing seeds in a 2: 1 ratio (the amount of sand must be greater). After you have prepared the soil mixture, it must be sieved and disinfected so that not a single microorganism remains in it. It is advisable to hold the soil for 10 minutes in a double boiler, and all spores of the mushrooms will be destroyed. In addition, such a procedure will lead to the inevitable death of weed seeds.

Steaming the soil

On a note! It is advisable to steam the potting mix 7 days before sowing. This is necessary for the resumption of the activity of beneficial bacteria contained in the soil.

Ready soil for tomato seedlings

Seed preparation

For maximum results, you need to germinate the tomato seeds before sowing. To do this, dampen a paper towel with warm water and place it on a plate. Then place the tomato seeds on a napkin and carefully cover them with the free end. After that, a plate of seeds must be placed in a bag.

Seeds must be prepared in advance

After a few days, your seeds will sprout, only for this they need to be stored in a warm place. Monitor the moisture content of the wipes and add warm water if necessary. To get strong plants, you need to use only high-quality planting material, so only germinated plants need to be planted.

Soaking seeds before sowing

Sowing step-by-step instructions

Step 1. Place the tomato seeds in a small saucer. Examine them carefully, because you only need the sprouted ones. If you previously soaked them in water, and did not germinate them on a wet napkin, then the remaining liquid can be poured into a flowerpot - it will not harm the plant.

The seeds are placed on a saucer

Step 2. To plant seeds, you will need ordinary tweezers, with which you will move the seed from the saucer into the ground, one seed at a time.

Using tweezers

Step 3. As a planting container, you can use any container or plastic cup. In this case, a cake box was used. After filling it with wet potting soil, make some shallow grooves with a screwdriver or other object.

Creating grooves with a screwdriver

Step 4. After making the required number of grooves, start spreading the seeds with tweezers. The approximate distance between tomato seeds is 1.5-2 cm. The process is very simple and quite quick. This will take no more than 2 minutes.

Sowing tomato seeds

Step 5. When finished planting the seeds, gently sprinkle them with earth. This can be done with a spoon or finger. Compact the soil lightly, but not hard.

Seeds need to be sprinkled with soil and compacted

Step 6. After you have covered the seeds with soil and compacted it, you can spray the surface of the soil with a spray bottle. Use regular water for this. It is not recommended to water the soil with a watering can or a glass, as a large amount of water can wash the seeds out of the grooves.

Moisturizing crops

Step 7. Now cover the container with seeds with foil or plain glass, then leave it on a warm windowsill. The first shoots should appear in about 7-8 days. After this, the glass must be removed and the seedlings must be allowed to develop fully, with additional lighting and watering.

The container is covered with glass

Aftercare for black tomatoes

In order for tomato seedlings to grow evenly, you need to regularly rotate the seed container relative to the window. This procedure is performed to protect the plant stem from bending towards the light source.

Care of tomato seedlings

For normal growth, you need to create optimal conditions, including the temperature, which should not be lower than + 24 ° C. This temperature should be maintained until the first shoots appear, that is, approximately 7-10 days. When the temperature drops below the recommended level, seedlings may appear much later. Do not ignore additional lighting, which also needs to be used when growing tomatoes. Only the lighting should not always be very intense - try to periodically change the brightness for optimal seedling growth.

On a note! Reduce the room temperature by a few degrees after germination, but the light intensity does not need to be reduced. To achieve this result, move the seed container to a cooler place where the temperature does not rise above + 18 ° C. This temperature should last for about a week, after which place the seed box in its original place until the leaves appear.

Before picking, you do not need to water the seedlings abundantly; watering should be moderate so that the soil does not dry out, but also does not become too wet. For irrigation, it is advisable to use warm water, the temperature of which should not be lower than 24 ° C. If you flood the plants with cold water, they may suffer from the blackleg. Experienced gardeners recommend using only settled water for irrigation - this will accelerate the growth of seedlings and strengthen them.

Correct and incorrect watering of tomatoes (for example, those grown in the open field)

Seedlings of tomatoes after picking

Fresh black tomatoes

Video - Organic Black Tomatoes