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Rapunzel tomatoes: variety description
Rapunzel tomatoes got such an exotic name thanks to a fabulous beauty with long hair. Those who have read the tale will immediately understand why – many small tomatoes on long cascade-like brushes outwardly resemble the heroine’s gorgeous braid.
Description of the variety of tomatoes “Rapunzel”
This outlandish variety is a rarity not only in the post-Soviet space, but also in foreign countries. The first mentions and photos of the Rapunzel tomato variety appeared in 2014, when it was presented at the American agricultural exhibition by the British company FloraNova.
One branch of Rapunzel tomatoes can grow up to 40 fruits
A distinctive feature of the variety are branches 2 m long, on which up to 40 miniature fruits can grow. The tomato is perfect for growing both in the greenhouse and on the balcony in a container. It should be borne in mind that the height of the bush can reach 2,5 m. The authors of the variety claim that it can be cultivated in any climate.
In appearance, the fruits are very similar to cherry tomatoes. They have a bright red smooth skin, inside of which there is a juicy, sweetish pulp.
Advantages of the Rapunzel tomato:
- disease resistance;
- high yield;
- fast ripening of fruits – up to 75 days;
- excellent taste characteristics.
Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the short storage time of fresh fruits and the problem with the acquisition of planting material.
Features of growing tomato “Rapunzel”
The cultivation of this variety is not much different from other types of tomatoes, with the exception of some features:
- seeds for seedlings are planted in March-April;
- containers with seedlings are placed in mini-greenhouses until shoots appear;
- when leaves appear on the sprouts, they are seated in different containers;
- after the establishment of warm weather, the seedlings are transplanted into a greenhouse with a distance between the bushes of at least 0,5 m;
- the stems are tied to a support;
- watering is carried out at the root as the topsoil dries out.
Although the tomato is practically not exposed to diseases, the seeds must be treated with a solution of potassium permanganate before planting. In the process of growth, for prevention, the bushes are sprayed with Bordeaux liquid or garlic-onion composition. Tomato fertilization is carried out every 2 weeks with manure diluted in a ratio of 1:10.
The Rapunzel tomato will perfectly decorate not only the greenhouse beds or the apartment balcony, but also any dish on the table. The fruits can be eaten fresh or in salads, or harvested for the winter.