Tomato Cornue des Andes organic seeds

Tomato 'Cornue des Andes' or 'Andine Cornue' is an old variety originating from South America, known for its elongated and pointed shape reminiscent of a pepper, its dense and not very juicy, almost seedless flesh, as well as its sweet and aromatic taste, without marked acidity. The fruits are bright red when ripe, measure between 10 and 15 cm long and weigh between 100 and 200 grams. In the kitchen, they are perfect in coulis and sauces, but also in summer salads or stuffed. Semi-late variety, to be sown from February to April and harvested from July to September.

Cornue des Andes is a variety that produces large stems and fairly heavy fruits, staking is essential. Side shoots (secondary shoots emerging between the main leaves) should be pinched out to promote fruit growth. Each plant produces clusters of 3 to 5 fruits, but the yield may be slightly lower than other more common varieties. Fruits generally ripen in 70 to 80 days after planting.

The tomato, originating from South and Central America, was cultivated by the Incas long before the arrival of the Conquistadors. Long considered toxic due to its resemblance to mandrake, it was only fully adopted in Europe in the 20th century. This solanaceous plant is perennial in tropical climates, but cultivated as an annual in our latitudes and offers an incredible diversity of shapes, sizes, and colours (red, yellow, green, even blue). Low in calories, rich in water, vitamin C, provitamin A, and lycopene, it is equally suitable for salads and sauces.

Tomatoes require warmth and sun to grow, but they can thrive in open ground or in containers on balconies, depending on the varieties. Harvest takes place 50 to 100 days after transplanting, when the fruit is coloured and slightly softened. Beware, unripe fruits contain solanine and should not be consumed. Storage is short but can be extended through jams, sauces, or preserves.

In the garden, growing tomatoes with basil is beneficial, and burying the base during transplanting promotes the root system. To prevent losses due to diseases or climate, grow several varieties each year. Finally, in the case of "blossom end rot", a calcium deficiency, a supply of comfrey can correct the issue.