Dark Opal

Dark Opal Tomato

A real showstopper! These deep purple-black tomatoes bring a touch of drama to your salad bowl. Bursting with rich, sweet flavour and irresistible juiciness, Dark Opal tomatoes grow in generous clusters on long, vigorous vines. A must-grow for anyone who loves something a little different!

Best Time to Plant

In a greenhouse from April. If planting outdoors, wait until the third week of May after all risk of frost has passed. If a late frost turns the leaves slightly blue, don’t panic — most plants will recover once it warms up.

Harvest

Around 8 weeks after planting, once the tomatoes have turned a rich purple-red colour and feel plump and juicy.

Growing Instructions

• Planting: Space plants 45cm apart in well-drained soil, a large pot, or growbag in your greenhouse.
• Acclimatising: If growing outside, start indoors or on a sunny windowsill, then gradually harden off over 4–6 days before moving outdoors.
• Support: Train plants up strings or canes, winding the main stem clockwise as they grow.
• Side Shoots: Pinch out small shoots that form where branches meet the main stem — this helps the plant focus on fruit.
• Feeding: Only start feeding once 3–4 tomatoes have begun to swell. Overfeeding too early can delay fruiting.
• Maintenance: Keep evenly watered (not soggy), remove any yellow or dead leaves, and pinch out the growing tip in mid-August to encourage fruit to ripen before the end of the season.

Top Tips

• Even Watering: Uneven watering causes split fruit — aim for consistent moisture.
• No Manure: Avoid using farmyard manure, as it can contain herbicide residues that harm tomato plants.
• Salad Star: Mix with yellow or red cherry tomatoes for a colourful and delicious salad combo!