tomato (standard) 'Ailsa Craig'

tomato or Solanum lycopersicum 'Ailsa Craig'

Eventual height & spread

tomato (standard) 'Ailsa Craig'

tomato or Solanum lycopersicum 'Ailsa Craig'

  • 2 + 1 FREE 8.5cm pots
  • £11.18 £13.98
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
  • 8.5cm pot
  • £5.59 £6.99
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
  • approx 75 seeds
  • £2.29
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
  • 2 + 1 FREE 9cm pots
  • £11.18 £13.98
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.95
  • Position: Full sun
  • Soil: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
  • Rate of growth: Average
  • Hardiness: Tender (will need winter protection)


A fine old variety which has stood the test of time, 'Ailsa Craig' is still one of the best you can buy for flavour, with a rich, tangy taste that has just the right level of sweetness. Grows outside or under cover, although as it takes its time to develop that mouthwatering flavour results are more reliable in a greenhouse.

Sow basil among your tomatoes as a companion plant: the scent deters whitefly and it's handy for harvesting to complement your tomatoes perfectly in Mediterranean cooking. A heritage variety introduced in 1925.


  • Garden care:
    Tie in to supports as it grows, and pinch out the sideshoots. Keep well watered and feed weekly once flowers start to form. Keep water levels in the soil consistent to prevent blossom end rot and split fruit. Increase water in hot spells and reduce in cool weather to keep the soil constantly damp but not waterlogged.


  • Sowing instructions:
    From January to March, sow in a frost-free greenhouse or windowsill, potting on seedlings individually as they grow. Once all danger of frost has passed, plant into greenhouse borders or into growbags, or harden plants off and plant outside in rich soil in a sunny spot.


  • Sow: January to March


  • Harvest: July to October
  • Goes well with