Whether you categorize tomatoes as by their scientific classification as fruit or their culinary one as vegetables, their rich flavor makes them easy to love.
If you agree and want to expand your horizons, try black prince tomatoes! Striking in appearance and flavor, you won’t regret adding it to your garden, and we’ll explain why.
A Brief History of Black Prince Tomatoes
The black prince tomato originated in Siberia and is known to fare well in cool weather. There, it’s been a popular ingredient for both meals and medicine since its creation in the mid-20th century, gradually rising in demand throughout Asia and eastern Europe as well.
However, it only recently gained widespread recognition in the U.S., where it is prized for its flavor and growability.
Characteristics of Black Prince Tomatoes
How can you distinguish black prince tomatoes from other varieties? It turns out they have distinctive characteristics. The more you understand them, the better prepared you’ll be to find and use them!
Appearance
The most obvious trait separating black prince tomatoes from other kinds is their dark greenish-red or brownish-red hues, which is likely caused by an excess of green pigments. The inner flesh is soft and similarly colored, with seeds nestled inside the juice.
Each tomato has a round shape, about two to three inches in diameter.
Taste
These tomatoes are known for tasting rich, sweetish flavor, especially in comparison with the more common garden tomato. Since the flesh is so plump and juicy, you feel a rush of that flavor with every bite.
Health Benefits
As if black prince tomatoes weren’t worth eating for their delectability alone, they can make you healthier! In fact, they’re known to be high in a few particular nutrients.
Vitamin A
In addition to serving as an antioxidant–which neutralizes free radicals and lowers your risk of cancer, heart disease, and other serious conditions—vitamin A supports your vision, immune system, cell division, tissue formation, and reproductive health.
Vitamin B
Many enzymes count on vitamin B to help break down amino acids and spread oxygen and energy from fat and carbs throughout your body.
Vitamin C
Though it’s best known for strengthening your immune system, vitamin C also assists with tissue repair. Like vitamin A, it’s an antioxidant as well.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a noted antioxidant found in many fruits, especially black prince tomatoes and others of its genus. It decreases the risk of heart disease and cancer and protects your body from sun damage.
Potassium
As a regulator of cell fluids, potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure, muscle contraction, and proper communication between the brain and the nervous system.
How to Grow Black Prince Tomatoes
Now that you know the basics of black prince tomatoes, you may feel more driven than ever to put them in your own garden! You’ll be delighted with their growability; they’re hardy and thrive in cool climates. Still, to enjoy them at their best, you may need some expert tips, which we’re ready to give you!
Planting
Despite the fruit’s capacity for withstanding cold weather, it will grow best if you plant it in early spring when there’s no chance of frost. Choose a spot that gets hit directly by sunlight, and deposit the seeds at least two to three feet apart.
Although you can grow the tomatoes across the ground, they’re less likely to be damaged by pests if you let them crawl up a trellis, post, fence, or cage. Either way, since they may end up six to nine feet long, they need ample space,
Nurturing
Tomatoes generally demand a high supply of nourishment, and black prince tomatoes are no exception. After planting, apply fertilizer or compost to stock up the soil with nutrients.
Give them about one inch of water weekly if there’s no rain. Increase that by at least half an inch if outdoor temperatures consistently rise above 60°F. Prune the vines as needed, too; it ensures that the most important parts of the plants get fed as much as they need.
Protecting
Like other plants, black prince tomatoes are susceptible to a wide range of diseases, but fusarium wilt is likely the most common.
It’s a fungal disease characterized by discoloration in the stem and yellowing in the bottom leaves. If your plants don’t die, they will at least take longer than usual to produce less fruit than you may expect.
Usually, the problem is easily avoided by ensuring your tomatoes are consistently nourished and watered. Cool soil is also helpful, and mulch is a great temperature regulator.
Aphids, beetles, fruit worms, slugs, and snails are also typical pests for tomato plants. Use natural and/or homemade pesticides to keep them away. Peppermint oil, in particular, tends to repel most insects.
Harvesting
Most black prince tomatoes are ready for harvesting just 60 to 70 days after planting. Ripe ones will have their famous dark-colored skin while the tops still look greenish, and the flesh will give slightly when squeezed.
Simply pull the tomatoes right off the vine a couple of times a week. Use a bucket, wheelbarrow, or basket to hold them.
Where to Buy Black Prince Tomatoes
Due to their popularity, you can probably find black prince tomatoes ready to eat at a local grocery store. However, we recommend a reputable online retailer like True Leaf Market if you want the seeds.
Recipes for Black Prince Tomatoes
Of course, these tomatoes are delicious when eaten raw or roasted. You can also make them into outstanding pasta sauce or pizza sauce as they become overripe. However, we’ve got you covered if you’re looking for some more ideas!
Soup
Tomato soup warms the heart like nothing else, especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich. Black prince tomatoes would guarantee a flavorful bowl, especially if you follow our recipe!
Bisque
In the mood for something thicker and creamier? You may prefer a recipe for bisque. It’s a hearty, savory dish that works beautifully as a main course, appetizer, or side dish.
Salsa
Tacos, burritos, and nachos are just a few foods that are improved by salsa. Use black prince tomatoes to make some! Our recipe will show you what else to mix in.
Try Black Prince Tomatoes!
If you take our advice and buy or grow your own black prince tomatoes, we’re certain you’ll thank us. Remember that they aren’t the only tomato out there, so continue learning, growing, and broadening your palette!
Visit our page on tomatoes for more details and advice about how to make them part of your everyday life.
- About the Author
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With a bachelor’s degree in history and several years of professional writing experience, Ashley Morales believes there’s a story in everything. It’s her passion to tell each one that she can.
As Audrey Hepburn said, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” There is nothing like gardening for developing self-sufficiency and a sense of accomplishment while enjoying the best nature can offer. She looks forward to sharing her appreciation of gardening with all readers!