Japanese trifele black tomatoes are a unique pear shaped variety. The fruits are green at the top and the color deepens from red to black when it reaches the blossom end. The fruits are 4 to 6 oz with a tasty meaty core. This variety originates in Russia and will give you fruit throughout the season.

Planting/Harvesting Notes

• Plant 18 inches apart in full sun and well draining soil
• Contain with tomato cages or support with stakes
• 80-85 days to harvest from planting
• Indeterminate (tomatoes keep coming until frost)

Seed Saving

To save tomato seeds, slice the top off the ripe tomato and scoop out the seeds into a small container. Be sure to label the container with your variety. Once all seeds are in the container, fill the container with water so that the seeds are floating (approximately 1/4-1/2 cup water) and cover the container. Allow the container to sit in a cool, dark place for 3-5 days. It is ok if a moldy film develops on top. After 3-5 days, carefully remove the film and stir. Allow seeds to settle for 1-2 minutes. Any seeds that sink are viable. Carefully pour off any floating seeds and pulp and then strain the sunken seeds. Rinse the remaining gel off the seeds while they are in the strainer. Then spread the seed in a single layer on a drying screen, paper plate, etc. If saving multiple varieties, be sure to label all seeds. After all seeds are dry, store in a labeled paper envelope in a cool dry place.