Tomato 'San Marzano II'
Solanum lycopersicum
High-quality strain of this classic heirloom paste tomato. From Johnny's Selected Seed:
San Marzano is considered one of the best paste tomatoes of all time, with Old World look and taste. Whole 4–6 oz. tomatoes peel easily and cook down quickly. Various strains of San Marzano exist; this strain was selected by tomato breeder Emily Rose Haga from seeds from the USDA gene bank, which is designed to preserve genetic diversity and increase food security. The strain originates from Parma, Italy, where it was developed for the 1950's canning industry. This strain has a very traditional San Marzano shape and appearance as well as a vibrant red color. Indeterminate. USDA Certified Organic.
Amy Goldman obviously knows tomatoes, which is why I adore her book so much. Interestingly, it was her cousin, Tillie Lewis, who introduced the San Marzano tomato as a successful commercial crop in the United States. It's a fun love story in The Heirloom Tomato).
San Marzanos are best for canning.
Packet contains approximately 25 seeds.
DETAILS
Plant type: Annual
Shape: Rectangular plum with some constriction at the neck
Days to maturity: 78 days
Light preference: Full sun
Plant spacing: 24” apart in rows 4’ apart
Hybrid status: Open pollinated
SOWING
Depth: 1/4 inch
Germination: 75–85°F
How to Grow
Sow indoors 5–6 weeks before transplanting out after danger of frost. There is no need to start any earlier as leggy, root-bound, or flowering transplants can cause stunting and reduce early production (we even prefer small transplants). Once germinated, grow at 60–70°F. At first true leaf, pot-up to 50-cell trays or 4" pots. Always bury all the way up to first set of leaves to develop strong root system (plants develop roots from stems).
We mostly grow indeterminate varieties, which are vine-like plants that continue to grow throughout the season. It's best to provide support, such as a tomato cage, trellis, basket weave, or string and clip system (anything they can grow up vertically). Indeterminates benefit by removing all suckers directly below the first flower cluster. Once fruit beings to set, we also prune out any leaves below to encourage air circulation.
Harvest & Storage
Once established, harvest leaves before flowering begins. Leaves can be harvested 3–4 times per year, cut at ground level. Leaves may be used fresh or dried. To dry, cut bundles into 1/4–1/2" lengths. Dry on a screen surfaced out of direct sunlight in an area with good ventilation. Stir periodically.
SHIPPING
FREE: $100 or more on any seeds
$3.95: 1–9 seed packets
$7.95: 10+ seed packets
