Our Roma Paste Tomato Mix brings together a selection of our favourite paste-style tomatoes, chosen for their flavour, texture, and excellent performance in the coastal BC climate. With thick meaty flesh and low moisture content, these tomatoes are perfect for sauce-making, preserving, or slow-roasting. The fruit varies in shape and size, but all share that classic rich, tangy tomato flavour prized by cooks. Semi-determinate plants produce over an extended season and benefit from staking to keep fruit off the ground.
This curated mix may include: Red Roma Tomato, Amish Paste Tomato, Speckled Roman Tomato, Federle Tomato, Pompeii Sauce Tomato, Red Plum Tomato, and Maida’s Kootenai Giant Tomato.
Where Can You Grow Roma Paste Tomato Mix?
These tomatoes grow best in Zones 3–9 in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. They do well in greenhouses, raised beds, or any sunny sheltered area, especially with support for the fruit-laden vines.
History and Historical Uses
Paste tomatoes have been cultivated for centuries as the foundation of sauces, salsas, and preserved goods in cultures around the world. Each of the varieties in this mix has a unique story and flavour profile, passed down through generations of growers and now thriving in Canadian gardens.
Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Sow indoors in early spring and transplant after last frost.
Zones 5-7: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before final frost; harden off and transplant.
Zones 3-4: Grow in greenhouse or under protection for best results.
How to Grow and Harvest Roma Paste Tomato Mix
Planting: Sow seeds 6mm (1/4in) deep indoors. Transplant seedlings 45-60cm (18-24in) apart.
Watering: Water deeply and regularly, avoiding the leaves to prevent disease.
Harvesting: Pick fruit when fully coloured and slightly soft to the touch.
Maintenance: Support plants with cages or stakes; prune lower leaves for airflow.
Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Select Ripe Fruit: Choose healthy, ripe fruit from strong plants.
Ferment Seeds: Scoop seeds with pulp, ferment in water 2-3 days, then rinse.
Dry and Store: Spread seeds to dry fully and store in cool, dark conditions.
Store: Use paper envelopes or airtight containers; viable for up to 5 years.
Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)
