Black De Barao Tomato: Variety Characteristics and Photos, Yield, Reviews

Every year, more and more gardeners are interested in unusual varieties, and even die-hard conservatives are eager to try growing exotic tomatoes. After all, such wonders are rarely found in stores or markets. The "De Barao Black" variety was developed in Brazil and has been around for quite some time, receiving state registration in 1997.

Description

The indeterminate, non-standard bushes can reach a height of 240 to 300 centimeters. It is a mid-late variety, ripening approximately 115 to 130 days after germination. It is resistant to most tomato diseases.

Growing in high greenhouses is recommended, but in the south, it can be planted in open ground, protecting the plants from wind, which can damage them. A distinctive feature is the excellent yield of up to 8 kg per plant, although the average yield is 6-7 kg. Typically, two plants are planted per square meter, meaning 15-16 kg can be harvested per square meter. "De Barao Black" is suitable for storage and transportation.

Small, round tomatoes weighing 40-70 grams. They are green when ripe, turning dark purple when fully ripe. The skin is thin, the flesh is firm, and the taste is sweet. The tomatoes have 2-3 chambers. They contain up to 6% dry matter. This variety is primarily eaten fresh, as it has an excellent flavor and adds a festive touch to any salad. They are also suitable for pickling and preserving; they can be used to make juice and paste, but this is rarely used.

Advantages

• Exotic look.
• Amazing taste.
• Productivity.
• Long-lasting immunity.
• Versatility of application.

Flaws

• Tall plants make it impossible for many gardeners to grow them in their greenhouses.
• In regions with variable climates, the fruits may not ripen fully.
• Regular gartering and removal of shoots.

Diseases and pests

Disease resistance doesn't guarantee complete freedom from disease. The variety is susceptible to black spot, which can be treated with Fitolavin. Another problem is blossom-end rot, which can be controlled with a calcium nitrate solution. Watering should also be limited.

Colorado potato beetles are collected by hand, then the bushes are treated with a product called "Prestige." Slugs can be controlled by mustard powder diluted in water; one tablespoon per 10 liters (3.5 gallons).

Growing seedlings

Seeds purchased from a specialist store do not require disinfection. However, if you harvested the seeds yourself, they should be treated with a solution of potassium permanganate or copper sulfate. Experienced gardeners recommend soaking the seeds in a stimulant before planting.

It's also important to carefully select the soil for the seedlings; it should be nutritious, loose, and absorbent. Seeds can be sown in either a single container to avoid picking, or in a larger container, but once a few leaves appear, the seedlings will need to be transplanted. Before planting, moisten the soil; after the seeds have been sown, cover the containers with transparent film and uncover them once the seedlings have emerged.

Tomatoes require a lot of light, so young seedlings should be placed in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill. While growing, water the seedlings 1-2 times a week. Before planting, harden them off by placing them outside. Start with a few minutes of fresh air, increasing the time each day.

Planting in the ground

Before transplanting the seedlings to their permanent location, make sure all frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently. Two to three plants are placed per square meter. Of course, like all tall tomatoes, the plants need support; for this purpose, a trellis should be erected.

As the plants grow, form 1-2 stems. Then, throughout the season, remove side shoots weekly, leaving a small stump. This is best done by hand, as garden tools can carry infections. Water "De Barao Black" a couple of times a week, preferably during cooler times of the day. It's recommended to hill the plants at least once every two weeks after watering; this helps strengthen the plant's roots.

Fertilize at least three times per season, alternating mineral and organic fertilizers. Once the fruits are fully formed and plump, remove the leaves under the clusters to prevent the plant from wasting energy. During flowering, treat tomatoes with a boric acid solution, dissolving 1 gram of the substance in 10 liters of water.

Harvesting

This variety is distinguished by its long fruiting period, with harvesting beginning in June and finishing in September. If the weather turns cold and unripe tomatoes remain on the vine, they are picked and placed on a windowsill to ripen.

Conclusion

This variety is best suited for experienced gardeners, as they know many of the nuances of caring for tall varieties. These tomatoes will certainly charm anyone with their excellent taste and unique color.

Reviews

Alevtina, 46 years old

I've always dreamed of growing an unusual tomato variety. I tried once, but it never worked. Last year, a neighbor shared some "De Barao Black" seeds. I sowed them in March, and the seedlings grew beautifully. I transplanted them to the garden at the end of May. This is a very tall variety, and the plants grew 2.5 meters in open ground. The yield is excellent, and the tomatoes are delicious. I collected seeds from the harvest for the following year.

Maria, 58 years old

A wonderful variety, resistant to late blight and many other diseases. The only drawback is that 'De Barao Black' is very demanding when it comes to fertilizer; if you don't fertilize the bushes, you won't see a high yield. I picked my last tomatoes at the end of September, before the frosts, and stored them until mid-December. You can store them until New Year's, but we ate them faster; they're very tasty.