All About Green Zebra Tomatoes

Green Zebra tomatoes are a variety of heirloom tomato plant that is gaining popularity with gardeners. Unlike other tomatoes available in nurseries across the country, this tomato variety has not been modified for taste, texture or color. These fruit never ripen to a red color, as do most tomatoes currently available for gardens, and so are not as popular as some other varieties. Green Zebra tomatoes are great for slicing and eating.

Appearance of Green Zebra Tomatoes

Green Zebra tomatoes grow on a vine that can reach over five feet in height when planted and cared for appropriately. They must be grown where they have a structure to climb such as a trellis or stakes. Unlike tomatoes found in grocery stores these never turn red and in fact have a green and yellow striped appearance. Ripe tomatoes are firm, but not hard. It is important to plant these seedlings in a garden with a lot of vertical space.

Planting and Growing Green Zebra Tomatoes

These plants should be spaced about 2 to 3 feet apart in a garden. They will require staking as they grow and prefer a full sun exposure. They will produce green and yellow striped fruit in about 90 days. This means the seeds may need to be started inside for northern climates where the growing season is not as long. Plant the seeds about ½ inch deep in prepared soil with a lot of organic material. Seedlings are not widely available for the green zebra plant but seeds can be found online at many retailers. The plants produce round fruit of less than one pound. They may produce a lot of fruit until the first frost. The tomatoes may be green, yellow or striped. Seeds can be harvested from a tomato and used to plant in the garden the following year if desired. Green Zebra tomatoes do well in drier conditions.

Obtaining Green Zebra Seeds

Seeds are available from many online seed providers. Choose a reputable source and review their policies for returning items when needed. Some seed providers also have help available to answer questions from gardeners. Green Zebra seeds can also be saved from a tomato that is picked when ripe. The seeds must be cleaned and placed in a dry, cool location for storage until the following spring. Plant them as described for purchased seed.

Disease and Pest Control

Green Zebra tomatoes appear to be somewhat prone to certain diseases such as blight, particularly in wet environments. Green Zebra tomatoes thrive in dry, hot environments such as Texas. They may suffer from aphids and other pests. The use of ladybugs as natural predators can eliminate aphids and tomato worms. It is not recommended to spray insecticides or herbicides in the garden. Consult with a local nursery for the best solutions in local climates. Green Zebra tomatoes have a tangy flavor that is different from more traditional tomatoes available in grocery stores. They can be sliced and used on sandwiches, eaten raw or used in salsa. The green color makes for an interesting sauce.