Whole and sliced Auriga tomatoes on a white background.
A macro close-up view of Auriga Tomatoes on wood cutting board.
A shiny orange cluster of Auriga Tomatoes with an orange-handled knife on a white background.
Close-up of cut and whole Auriga Tomatoes on a white background.
A cluster of Auriga Tomatoes at varied stages of maturity on a light blue background.
Whole and sliced Auriga tomatoes on a white background.
A macro close-up view of Auriga Tomatoes on wood cutting board.
A shiny orange cluster of Auriga Tomatoes with an orange-handled knife on a white background.
Close-up of cut and whole Auriga Tomatoes on a white background.
A cluster of Auriga Tomatoes at varied stages of maturity on a light blue background.

Tomato Seeds,
Auriga

3.37 ReviewsSKU: #TO139Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). Auriga is the Latin word for “charioteer,” and this salad tomato leads in a crowded field! It has all the qualities tomato lovers value most, including balanced tangy-sweet flavor, productivity, and resistance to cracking. Vigorous vines produce clusters of 2- to 3-ounce, golden-orange fruit with sugar-sweet flesh blushed with ruby. Eight or nine to a bunch. Auriga is the product of East German tomato breeder Dr. Martin Stein, who developed the tomato at Quedlinburg, GDR, in the 1970s. Tomato heads, you’ll want to give this one a go!

Growing Tips: Auriga tomato grows best in well-draining, organically rich soil with plenty of sunlight. This indeterminate (vining) tomato variety reaches about 5 feet in height and can use support, such as staking or caging, to help manage its growth and the weight of the fruit clusters​.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Solanum lycopersicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Indeterminate
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
75
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors about 6-10 weeks before your last frost date. For most climates, transplant seedlings outdoors when nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50 F. If growing in a cooler region, using a greenhouse or row cover may extend the growing season and improve yields. You can also consider using a heat mat to help warm the soil and speed up germination. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in a sterile seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm to encourage germination, which typically happens in 7-14 days. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then outdoors, spaced about 24 inches apart.

How to Grow

Auriga tomatoes require full sun, at least 6-8 hours daily, to produce optimally. Regular watering is essential; keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced tomato fertilizer to support the plant's high nutrient demands. Pruning side shoots and lower leaves can improve air circulation, reducing the risk of disease and helping to focus the plant’s energy on fruit production​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Most tomatoes are self-pollinating and don't frequently cross; in a garden setting, separating by 25 feet should prevent 99% of cross-pollination. Or you can bag and hand pollinate for 100% purity.
  • On a small scale, seeds may be scooped from the fruits and dried on a paper towel.
  • For larger quantities or cleaner seeds, fermentation for a few days is recommended.
  • Once dry, tomato seed can be stored in a cool, dry, dark place; good seed retains viability for 5 years or more.

FAQ

Can Auriga tomatoes be grown in containers?

Yes, with proper soil depth and support, it can grow well in large containers.

Are Auriga tomatoes resistant to cracking?

Yes, the Auriga tomato is known for its burst-resistant qualities, which makes it less prone to cracking even when watered inconsistently or during periods of heavy rain​.

What are common pests and diseases that affect Auriga tomatoes?

Like most tomatoes, Auriga can be susceptible to common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms. Diseases to watch for include blight and leaf spot. Maintaining good air circulation and using organic pest control methods can help keep these issues at bay.

Browse our full range of heirloom tomato seeds.

Customer reviews

3.3 / 5 7 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Heavy producer: Abundant fruit for most growers.

  • Easy to grow: Vigorous plants, good in greenhouses and for beginners.

  • Bright orange fruit: Beautiful bright orange tomatoes.

  • Heads up: Some report blossom end rot, and flavor divides growers.

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