Tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables in the world, and for good reason. Not only are they versatile and delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients. If you’re a tomato lover, then you’ve probably heard of San Marzano tomatoes, a variety of tomato that’s particularly beloved for its rich flavor and meaty texture.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at San Marzano tomatoes, including how to grow them, their characteristics, and their uses.

What Are San Marzano Tomatoes?

San Marzano tomatoes are a type of plum tomato that originated in the town of San Marzano sul Sarno in southern Italy. They’re known for their elongated shape, thick flesh, and rich, sweet flavor.

San Marzano tomatoes are particularly prized for making tomato sauces, as their thick flesh and low moisture content make for a rich, flavorful sauce. They’re also great for canning, as they hold their shape well even after being cooked.

Are San Marzano Tomatoes Determinate or Indeterminate?

When it comes to growing San Marzano tomatoes, one of the first things you’ll need to know is whether they’re determinate or indeterminate. Determinate tomatoes grow to a certain size and then stop, while indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow and produce fruit until the growing season ends.

San Marzano tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they’ll continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. This makes them a great choice for gardeners who want a steady supply of tomatoes all summer long.

Growing San Marzano Tomatoes

If you’re interested in growing San Marzano tomatoes, here are a few tips to get you started:

Start with good quality seeds

Look for high-quality San Marzano tomato seeds from a reputable seed supplier. You can start your seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area.

Choose a sunny spot

San Marzano tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, so choose a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sun.

Prepare the soil

San Marzano tomatoes prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Prepare your soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure, and make sure it’s free of weeds.

Plant your seedlings

Once your seedlings have sprouted and grown to about 6 inches tall, it’s time to transplant them into your garden. Dig a hole deep enough to cover the stem up to the first set of leaves, and water well.

Provide support

San Marzano tomato plants can grow quite tall, so it’s important to provide support to keep them upright. You can use tomato cages, stakes, or trellises to keep your plants from falling over.

Water regularly

San Marzano tomatoes need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once a week, and more frequently during periods of drought.

Fertilize

San Marzano tomatoes are heavy feeders, so it’s important to fertilize them regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer that’s high in phosphorus to promote fruit production.

Harvest

San Marzano tomatoes typically mature in about 80-90 days from planting. They’re ready to harvest when they’re deep red in color and slightly soft to the touch. Be sure to harvest them promptly to prevent overripening or splitting.

Uses for San Marzano Tomatoes

San Marzano tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are just a few ways you can use San Marzano tomatoes in your cooking:

Tomato sauce

San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their use in tomato sauce. Their thick flesh and rich flavor make for a delicious, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, and more.

Canning

San Marzano tomatoes are also great for canning, as they hold their shape well even after being cooked. This makes them a great choice for making salsa, tomato paste, and other canned tomato products.

Salads

San Marzano tomatoes are delicious in salads, either on their own or mixed with other vegetables. Try them in a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and basil.

Sandwiches

San Marzano tomatoes are a great addition to sandwiches, adding a burst of flavor and moisture. Try them on a BLT or in a grilled cheese sandwich.

Roasted

Roasting San Marzano tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor. Roast them with garlic and olive oil for a delicious side dish or topping for pasta.

Conclusion

San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice for gardeners who want to grow flavorful, meaty tomatoes that are perfect for making sauce, canning, or using in a variety of dishes. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious San Marzano tomatoes all summer long.