Opalka

Tomato

Zone 1a Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Indeterminate

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, Opalka paste tomatoes ripen to a deep, classic red with a firm, meaty interior that feels almost …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 27th
Last Frost	Jun 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Aug 10th
Harvest Begins	Oct 24th
Harvest Ends	Jul 15th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Indeterminate
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

African Blue Basil

Genovese Emily Basil

Genovese Basil

Nantes Scarlet Carrot

Bolero F1 Carrot

Queen Of Sheba Basil Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What disease is most likely to hit Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and what should I do early?

Look for early blight on tomato leaves: dark, concentric rings that spread from the lower foliage upward. Remove affected leaves as soon as you see spots, avoid wetting foliage when watering, and spray with a labeled copper-based fungicide if conditions are humid or rain is frequent. Space plants for airflow so new growth stays drier.

How often should I water Amish Paste tomato plants during their main fruiting period?

During main fruiting, keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week depending on heat and soil type. Water deeply 1–2 times per week, letting the top few centimeters dry slightly between waterings to prevent split fruit and root problems. Use drip irrigation or water at the base to keep Solanaceae foliage dry.

How can I tell when Opalka tomato fruits are ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits are fully colored for the variety and feel firm but give slightly when gently squeezed. Expect mature fruit around 75 days from transplanting; pick regularly once they start ripening to keep plants producing. If fruit cracks or tastes overly firm, let it ripen another day or two on the vine before picking.

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, Opalka paste tomatoes ripen to a deep, classic red with a firm, meaty interior that feels almost sculpted in the hand. Expect a dense, low-gel core and a smooth, satin skin that holds its shape beautifully—ideal for thick sauces and robust roasting where flavor concentrates and stays true. Grow Opalka for a steady, dependable harvest rhythm over the season, delivering the kind of tomato richness that turns everyday batches into signature favorites.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start seeds at least 7 weeks before your last frost, then transplant only when soil is reliably warm (60°F+) to avoid cold-stunting the plants.