Characteristics and description of the tomato variety "Hedgehog"

The "Hedgehog" tomato is one of those varieties that produces equally well in traditional garden beds, greenhouses, and in tubs or pots on balconies. The choice of growing location depends on the local climate and the available land.

The "Hedgehog" tomato variety is medium-sized, with plum-shaped fruits and low maintenance. A new development by Russian breeders has created a variety resistant to adverse weather conditions and diseases common to the nightshade family.

Description of the bush

A very compact, determinate bush. Height varies depending on growing conditions, sometimes reaching 50 cm to 1 meter.

Characteristics of fruits

The fruits of the "Hedgehog" tomato are oblong, plum-shaped, and pointed at the tip. The surface is smooth, without ribs. The flesh is juicy. When fully ripe, the color is bright red.

In terms of ripening time, this variety is considered mid-season. From planting to harvest, it typically takes 110–115 days. This timeframe may vary slightly depending on weather, climate, and growing conditions. Tomatoes planted in greenhouses typically ripen somewhat earlier.

When all agricultural standards are met, the yield reaches 15 kg per square meter.

Consumer purpose

This variety boasts excellent flavor. Sweet, with a distinct tartness and juicy flesh, this tomato is versatile. "Hedgehog" tomatoes are equally at home fresh, in cooking, and in sauces and tomato juice. Their small size, moderately thick skin, and convenient shape make them particularly suitable for home canning, pickling, and whole-salting.

Tomatoes transport well. Harvested at the technical ripeness stage, they can be stored for up to six weeks.

Care Features

Seedling

The seedling method is recommended for growing "Hedgehog" tomatoes. Seeds are sown in separate containers with soil in the spring, 55-65 days before the expected time of planting outdoors. The seeds should be soaked for 24 hours in a weak solution of potassium permanganate beforehand. This procedure is not necessary, but it can help prevent the development of infectious diseases. During growth, the seedlings should be watered carefully, avoiding standing water. A spray bottle is even better.

After three strong leaves emerge, the seedlings are pricked out, meaning they are transplanted into a larger container or individual small cups. 10-14 days before planting, the seedlings are periodically taken outside to harden off.

Soil preparation and planting

Tomatoes prefer light, well-drained, and well-fertilized soil. Choose a sunny spot for your tomato bed, protected from the wind. Dig holes for planting seedlings at least 40 cm apart and 50 cm between rows. If the soil is well-fertilized, no additional fertilizer is needed. Otherwise, apply a mixture of organic and phosphate fertilizers under the seedling roots. Place the seedlings in a hole filled with fertilizer and water, cover with soil, and water again.

Watering

During the first few days, water the seedlings daily until they establish themselves in their new location. Subsequent watering is done as needed, ensuring the soil doesn't dry out but doesn't overwater the roots. Loosening the soil around the plants will help prevent waterlogging.

A good way to retain moisture and prevent crusting on the soil surface is mulching. I use dry grass clippings, straw, dried weeds, and wood shavings as mulch.

Bush formation

Unlike tall tomato varieties, determinate tomato varieties, such as the "Hedgehog" variety, do not require constant pinching and shoring of stems throughout the growing season. However, it is still recommended to remove the lower leaves before the first branching at the beginning of flowering. The same applies to staking—abundant ovaries can break fragile stems, so staking bushes taller than 50 cm to a low stake is essential. This procedure will also help prevent rotting of fruit left on the ground.

Top dressing

Achieving a high tomato yield is impossible without fertilizing. Phosphate fertilizers, a solution of cow manure or chicken manure, or a mixture of organic matter and phosphates are used for this purpose. Fertilizing is carried out 2-3 times, every two weeks.

"Hedgehog" tomatoes, like all new varieties, are resistant to late blight. To control pests, they can be treated with sprays containing growth stimulants, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Reviews of the variety

In their reviews of the new "Hedgehog" tomato variety, amateur gardeners highlight a number of key advantages:

• good yield;
• ease of care;
• disease resistance;
• decorativeness and the ability to usefully decorate a balcony or terrace;
• good shelf life;
• excellent taste;
• versatility in use;
• suitability for transportation and excellent presentation.