Fans of unusual varieties of tomatoes respond positively to the Etoile tomatoes, the hallmark of which is the impressive ribbing of the fruit. Due to this structure, ripe tomato is very similar to bell pepper, and in the context it resembles a bright lace flower. This article, in which you will find a description of the plant and the secrets of its cultivation, will help determine whether to plant this interesting specimen on its site.
Grade description
Exotic tomato variety Etoile, whose name is translated from French means "star", gained fame in the late 90's. Information about its origin is contradictory. Some sources claim that he was bred in Kazakhstan, while another part believes that Switzerland is the birthplace of culture.
Plant seeds have a fairly high germination, which is kept at 85%. The variety is mid-season, you can count on the first crop already in 100-110 days after planting. Productivity is average and depends on growing conditions. But even with poor care from one bush, you can expect at least 40 fruits with a total weight of 4 to 9 kg.
In the description of tomato Etoile, it is noted that the variety is indeterminate. Bushes reach an average height of 1.5 m; they need to be carefully formed and tied to supports.
In racemose inflorescences are 5-6 tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes have a rich red-raspberry color, yellow stripes on the sides are acceptable. The pulp is fleshy and fairly dense. The number of ribs in the fruit varies. The skin is dense, not prone to cracking. The average weight varies between 200-250 grams.
There is a pleasant sweet and sour taste of tomatoes. They are suitable for fresh consumption, as well as for processing into ketchup, sauces. Tomatoes can be picked in green, they ripen successfully. Suitable for long storage and transportation.
Advantages and disadvantages
Reviews about tomato Etoile reveal the advantages and disadvantages of the variety. Among the positive qualities are the following:
- good yield;
- prolonged fruiting throughout the season;
- relative unpretentiousness;
- a beautiful fruit shape that allows you to use tomatoes to decorate dishes on the festive table.
Experienced gardeners note a number of disadvantages of the variety, which nevertheless should be paid attention to:
- although the cultivation of tomato Etoile is permissible in open ground, it is preferable to use greenhouses to achieve better yield;
- the plant is demanding to remove stepsons;
- the bushes need careful gartering and shaping.
Growing Features
Before germinating the seeds, they should be held in a growth stimulator, which will help them to better ascend. Planting seeds is advised in early to mid-March.
Light soil, in equal proportions consisting of earth and humus, is best suited for tomato. It is acceptable to add a small amount of ash and sand.
Planted seeds should be placed in a warm place, previously covered with a film. As soon as the sprouts appear, they must be exposed to a bright light. For the uniform development of seedlings, it is advised to periodically turn it.
The readiness of seedlings for transplanting into the soil is determined by the appearance of 6-7 permanent leaves. At the same time, it is desirable to treat each well with a hot solution of potassium permanganate of medium saturation.
Plant care
For better growth and maturation, bushes must be formed in 2-3 trunks and tied to a support. Otherwise, the plant risks falling and breaking under the weight of rather large fruits. Removing stepchildren required. To save the strength of a tomato as it ripens, pinch the lower leaves.
The variety does not need frequent watering. Sufficient watering is considered 1 time in 6-7 days. Top dressing is done 3-4 times per season; complex fertilizer should be used for this. Harvesting is carried out throughout the season as it ripens.
The root system of the plant is well developed, but needs oxygen. Therefore, loosening the soil and removing weeds must be carried out regularly. Proper care allows you to achieve a yield of 20 kg of fruits per 1 square. m
Diseases and Pests
Tomato Etoile is a fairly resistant variety to the diseases characteristic of nightshade. Fusarium and verticillosis can be avoided by prudent disinfection of the soil and timely treatment of plants. It is used for this "Fitosporin" or a pale pink solution of potassium permanganate.
The surface coating of the soil with straw, humus or peat allows the tomato to be protected from insects. This is also facilitated by the periodic removal of weeds. An effective remedy against aphids is warm soapy water. She should wash the leaves and stems of the plant.
Prevent late blight and mosaic will help spraying with copper-containing agents. If infected leaves or other parts of the culture are found, they should be removed and burned. This will help prevent the spread of the disease.
Reviews
Experienced gardeners are happy to share reviews and photos of tomato Etoile. Judging by their statements, successful growing experience has been achieved not only in greenhouses, but also in open ground. The aesthetics of ribbed fruits were especially appreciated by the housewives using them to decorate dishes.
The classic tomato flavor has received the approval of the consumer when using tomatoes both fresh and as preparations. Fruits are well suited for drying. It is noted that freshly chopped rings of tomatoes were also frozen, with further use in the preparation of pizza.