Tomato "Delicates": characteristics and description of the variety

Domestic breeders have worked hard to create a wonderful variety called "Delicates." It was registered back in 2001, so many gardeners have already become familiar with it.

Description

The bushes are determinate, standard-type, and ripen mid-early, typically 100-110 days from germination until ripe fruit. This variety can be grown both in open beds and under cover; some even plant "Delicates" in pots on balconies.

Plant heights range from 40 to 60 centimeters, with sturdy stems and regular-sized, green leaves. The inflorescence is simple, with an articulated peduncle. The tomatoes have 5-6 chambers, contain 5% dry matter, are round or flat-round, weigh 85-120 grams, and have smooth, medium-thick skin. When ripe, the fruits turn a rich pink. The taste is excellent. The yield is quite good: 1.5-2 kg per plant, which translates to up to 16 kilograms per square meter, with eight plants planted per square meter.

They can be eaten fresh or added to various dishes. This variety is also ideal for any type of canning; the tomatoes tolerate heat well and retain their original flavor and appearance.

Diseases and pests

The variety is resistant to drought conditions and blossom-end and root rot. However, it can be susceptible to brown spot, a disease particularly common in the southern climate, both in open ground and greenhouses. For treatment and prevention, use the product "Zaslon." Watering should also be reduced and the greenhouse should be ventilated regularly. Another disease to which "Delicates" is not tolerant is powdery mildew; "Profi Gold" can be used to combat it.

The Colorado potato beetle, a common pest of tomatoes grown in garden beds, can cause irreparable damage to the plants. If the beetle appears, it should be collected by hand and then treated with Prestige. In greenhouses, the main pest is whitefly, which can be controlled with Confidor. Slugs can be controlled with a mixture of pepper and ground mustard, added to the soil at a rate of 1 teaspoon per square meter.

Advantages

• Compact bushes.
• Relatively good yield indicators.
• Excellent taste.
• Universal application.
• Resistance to weather conditions.

Flaws

• The need to remove stepchildren before the first flower brush.
• Requires support, despite the fact that the plant is low-growing.

Growing and care

To achieve a decent harvest, it's essential to use high-quality seed. Seeds can be sown in containers, or directly into the soil in the south. However, with the latter method, be prepared for potential losses. Seeds are disinfected and soaked before being sown into the soil.

Gardeners typically begin sowing in March, but depending on the growing region, the seedlings should be at least 65 days old by the time they're planted in their permanent location. Prepared containers are filled with fertile seedling soil, and holes are dug approximately 1 cm deep. The seeds are placed in the soil, spaced 2 cm apart. Otherwise, thinning will be necessary after germination. Until sprouts appear, water the future seedlings daily to prevent a crust from forming, which would hinder germination. Afterward, water every 5-7 days.

Further care involves maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, providing adequate lighting, and timely transplanting. Hardening off young seedlings before transplanting is recommended.

Transplantation to a permanent location

Tomatoes prefer loose, nutrient-rich soil with low acidity, so fertilize it in the fall or early spring. They should be planted in a sunny, wind-protected spot. Before planting, dig holes, and remove the seedlings from their containers with a lump of soil, supporting the soil with your hand. After transferring the plant to the hole, cover it with soil and water.

Although the bushes are low-growing, they still require staking, otherwise the stems may break under the weight of the fruit. Water the tomatoes with warm, settled water early in the morning or evening; avoid this in hot weather, as it can burn the plants. Remove the lower leaves to ensure proper ventilation. Tillage and weeding are carried out as needed.

Tomatoes are fertilized several times per season; the "Delicates" variety responds particularly well to phosphorus-potassium mixtures; feeding is especially important during flowering and fruit set.

Conclusion

"Delicates" is relatively easy to care for and produces a good yield for a low-growing variety. Its flavor is simply excellent, and it's suitable for growing in any conditions. It's been a staple in many gardens for over a decade.

Reviews

Marina, 35 years old

I've been living at my dacha for several years now. I have a small plot of land. I'm certainly no expert, but I'm no newbie either. During this time, I've learned some of the intricacies of growing various crops. My family eats tomatoes the most, so I plant them in most of my garden. Last year, a neighbor shared some "Delikates" seeds. I planted them in April, planted them in the garden by mid-June, and by August I had my own tomatoes, which have been fruiting for quite a long time. I picked many of them while they were still green because it got cold, and they ripened at home.

Anna, 55 years old

I've been planting this variety for over five years now, and the yield is always reliable. My family and I love the tomatoes themselves, and they're suitable for any type of canning. The seeds have excellent germination, and the seedlings haven't had a single illness over the years. I don't know if this is due to their natural immunity or just luck. They're completely low-maintenance, perfect for those just learning how to grow tomatoes.