F1 Hybrid Dera Tomato | 5g

Description

The F1 Hybrid Dera Tomato is a superior tomato variety known for its high yield, disease resistance, and excellent fruit quality. As an F1 hybrid, it combines the best traits from its parent plants to provide growers with a reliable and productive tomato.

The Dera tomato is particularly favored for its adaptability to various growing conditions and its suitability for both fresh market sales and processing.

Key Features of F1 Hybrid Dera Tomato:

1. Variety:
   • Type: F1 Hybrid Tomato
   • Growth Habit: Indeterminate, meaning the plant continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season.
2. Fruit Characteristics:
   • Size and Shape: Produces medium to large-sized, round fruits. Typically, the tomatoes weigh between 150-200 grams each.
   • Color: Fruits mature to a rich, deep red color.
   • Flavor: Known for its excellent flavor balance, with a mix of sweetness and acidity that makes it ideal for fresh consumption and cooking.
3. Plant Characteristics:
   • Vigor: Strong, vigorous plants with dense foliage that provides good protection against sunscald.
   • Yield: High-yielding variety, producing numerous fruits per plant.
4. Disease Resistance:
   • Resistance/Tolerance: Bred for resistance to common tomato diseases such as Verticillium wilt, Fusarium wilt, Tomato mosaic virus, and nematodes. This ensures healthier plants and higher yields.

Growing Instructions:

1. Planting Time:
   • Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
   • Outdoor Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).
2. Soil and Location:
   • Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure.
   • Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
3. Sowing Depth and Spacing:
   • Sowing Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch (6 mm) deep.
   • Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart in rows spaced 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
4. Germination and Seedling Care:
   • Temperature: Maintain soil temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal germination, which usually occurs in 7-14 days.
   • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water seedlings regularly and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
5. Transplanting and Growth:
   • Hardening Off: Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing exposure over a week.
   • Planting: Transplant seedlings to the garden at the same depth they were in their pots. Stake or cage plants to support growth and keep fruits off the ground.
6. Care and Maintenance:
   • Watering: Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
   • Fertilization: Feed plants with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks or use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time.
   • Pruning: Remove suckers (side shoots) that develop in the leaf axils to promote better airflow and direct the plant’s energy towards fruit production.

Harvesting and Use:

1. Harvesting:
   • Harvest tomatoes when they are fully red and firm. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the tomatoes from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to avoid damaging the plant.
   • For the best flavor, harvest in the morning when the fruit is cool.
2. Uses:
   • Culinary: The Dera tomato is versatile, and ideal for fresh salads, slicing, sandwiches, sauces, and canning. Its excellent flavor makes it a favorite for both fresh eating and cooking.
   • Storage: Fresh tomatoes can be stored at room temperature for several days or in the refrigerator for extended freshness. For long-term storage, consider canning or making sauces.