Tomato Siberian

Solanum lycopersicum

Siberian is an exceptionally early tomato producing bright red, egg to globe-shaped fruits to approximately 40 mm across. The fruits are borne in clusters on compact plants, with heavy yields and good traditional tomato flavour for fresh eating, salads and cooking.

Originating from the Altai Mountain region near the borderlands of Siberia and China, this variety is particularly valued for its ability to set fruit in cool temperatures and perform well where the growing season is short. Its early maturity makes it a useful choice for cool districts where many tomatoes struggle to ripen before the end of the season.

Plants have a compact, determinate bush habit and produce their crop quickly and heavily. Despite its name and excellent cold tolerance, Siberian is not frost tolerant and should still be protected from freezing conditions.

Seed count: approximately 250–400 seeds per gram. Approximately 30 seeds per packet.

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: February–August
Subtropics: August–April
Mild climates: August–December
Cold climates: September–December, after frost risk has passed

Planting / Sowing

Sow approximately 5 mm deep into seed-raising mix or directly where conditions are warm. In cooler climates, seed can be started indoors approximately five weeks before transplanting after the last frost. Best soil temperature for germination is approximately 16–35°C.

Space plants approximately 40–60 cm apart with 60–150 cm between rows. Grow in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. Plants are compact and generally require less training than climbing varieties, although staking or caging can help support the heavy crop. Water at soil level where possible and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Maturity: approximately 55 days.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.