Barred Boar tomatoes captivate gardeners with their unique appearance and rich flavor. This distinct fruit offers an exciting addition to any garden space, blending visual appeal with a satisfying harvest.
Distinctive Features of Barred Boar Tomatoes
The Barred Boar tomato showcases a striking appearance, characterized by its deep reddish-brown or pinkish-brown skin adorned with prominent metallic green stripes. These vibrant markings often intensify as the fruit ripens, creating an eye-catching display. Typically, the fruits are medium to large, generally weighing between 8 to 12 ounces, and exhibit a round to flattened beefsteak shape. Occasionally, some fruits may even develop a heart-shaped form.
Beneath its unique skin, the Barred Boar tomato possesses dense, meaty, and juicy flesh, often presenting a pinkish-brown or brick-red hue. This variety originated from the breeding efforts of Brad Gates at Wild Boar Farms in Northern California, contributing to its status as a sought-after artisan tomato.
Cultivating Barred Boar Tomatoes
Successful cultivation of Barred Boar tomatoes requires at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The plants thrive in well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is suitable for optimal growth.
Start seeds indoors approximately six to ten weeks before the last anticipated frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors only after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures remain warm, above 50°F (10°C). When transplanting, bury about one-third of the plant stem to encourage a stronger root system. Space individual plants 24 to 36 inches apart for proper air circulation and growth.
Consistent watering is important, especially during the fruiting period, to prevent issues like fruit splitting. Water deeply at the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering, to encourage robust root growth and minimize foliage dampness. Initially, deep watering every two to three days may be needed, transitioning to every four to five days as the plants mature, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Barred Boar tomatoes require regular nutrients. Incorporate a balanced fertilizer at transplanting. As plants develop and set fruit, apply a tomato-specific fertilizer or compost tea every two to three weeks. Providing nitrogen early supports healthy stem and leaf development, while phosphorus becomes more important for fruit production.
Given their indeterminate growth habit, Barred Boar plants necessitate sturdy support. Using five to six-foot tall cages or strong stakes helps prevent branches from breaking under the weight of the fruit. Regular pruning of suckers and lower side branches can improve air circulation around the plant to deter common tomato diseases. Rotating planting locations each year also aids in disease prevention.
Flavor and Culinary Uses
Barred Boar tomatoes offer a complex, rich flavor profile with a blend of sweetness, tangy, or smoky undertones. Some note an earthy quality, reminiscent of an “old-time tomato flavor.” The interior flesh is meaty and juicy, providing a satisfying texture.
These tomatoes are well-suited for fresh consumption, such as slicing onto sandwiches or into salads. Their taste also shines in fresh salsas or light sauces. They can also be used for juicing or canning.
Harvesting and Storage Tips
Barred Boar tomatoes are typically ready for picking 65 to 75 days after transplanting. Ripeness is indicated by intensified color, with pinkish-brown tones deepening and metallic green stripes becoming more pronounced. The fruit should also yield slightly to gentle pressure and detach easily from the vine.
When harvesting, gently twist the fruit from the stem or use garden clippers to avoid damaging the plant. Picking ripe tomatoes regularly encourages the plant to produce more fruit. For short-term storage, keep Barred Boar tomatoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, ideally with the stem scar facing upwards, to preserve flavor and texture and prevent premature softening. Avoid refrigeration, as it can diminish their flavor.