(Lycopersicon esculentum) 'Mala Cara' comes from Catalonia, one of the centers of biodiversity for storage tomatoes. A "de colgar" or hanging tomato, its name translates to "bad face," likely on account of its peach skin that turns red as it matures, as though blushing. It has proven to be one of the most durable of the storage tomatoes we have grown to date, with the firm fruits lasting months after harvest. The matte skin is somewhat reminiscent of "peach" tomatoes and is strikingly beautiful in its unusual appearance, especially contrasting against its darker red interior. Like most storing tomatoes, the flavor hits peak well after harvest and shouldn't be compared to summer season varieties, as they are unique in their winter role both texturally and flavor-wise.
Indeterminate. 75-80 days. UO

Packet: 20 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow 5-8 weeks before your last frost date.

Transplant out after danger of frost (45+F nighttime temps).

Note: Don't start too early or plants will be leggy and root-bound! Tomatoes do well in clay to loam soils.

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/8-1/4"

SPACING:

18-30" spacing in rows 5' apart.

EMERGENCE:

5-10 days @ soil temp 70-85F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Medium-Heavy. Prefers well-drained, well-balanced fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Note that excess Nitrogen will encourage foliage, not fruit! Low calcium and irregular watering will result in blossom end rot.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Row cover may be used for extra warmth and possible earlier fruit set.

Irregular watering can result in blossom end rot. Even watering and supplemental calcium can help prevent this.

Plant deeply to encourage healthy root structure.

Indeterminate varieties may benefit from pruning suckers to encourage air flow, plant health, and energy towards plant top and fruit.

Determinate varieties do not need pruning.

Trellis Indeterminate varieties! We really like the Florida weave.

Tomato, 'Mala Cara'