Tomato Fatima: description and characteristics of the variety, reviews

Selecting the ideal varieties is a top priority for any successful vegetable grower. Plants must not only produce excellent yields but also meet a number of other important criteria. Among the wide variety of tomatoes, the Fatima variety has earned particular attention and popularity. And there are good reasons for this.

The Fatima tomato's main advantage is its hardiness. Developed by Russian breeders, it thrives in both the hot Kuban sun and the harsh conditions of the Far East. But enough history, time for some practical experience!

Main characteristics of the bush

This early variety performs well both in open ground and greenhouse conditions. The following can be noted when describing this tomato:

• the height of an adult plant is 40–60 cm;
• the stems are strong and fleshy;
• spreading bush;
• does not require pinching;
• high yield – on average 2.5 kg from 1 bush.

Growing this variety doesn't present many problems. The main thing is to tie the plant up promptly, otherwise it will simply collapse under the weight of the fruit.

Characteristics of fruits

Large dessert tomatoes, reminiscent of a heart in shape:

• the weight of the fruit ranges from 200 to 500 grams;
• high commercial qualities;
• Sweet taste, smooth reddish skin and meaty texture.

Ripe tomatoes are perfect for eating fresh or preserving. Their rich flavor makes them ideal for making thick sauces and juices. They're also excellent for canning and baking for the winter.

Preparation before planting

The best time to start growing seedlings is in March. This work is carried out 50-60 days before the planned planting of the already grown seedlings in the ground. Taking into account the weather forecast and the characteristics of your region, everyone can choose the ideal sowing date. Generally, this variety can be grown without seedlings, depending on the grower's personal preference.

If the seeds were purchased in a store, they do not require any additional preparation.

If you're growing your own planting material, treat the seeds with a 1% potassium permanganate solution for 20 minutes. To do this, dissolve 1 gram of the solution in 100-150 ml of water.

After this, sow the seeds into the previously prepared containers. The seeds are planted 1.5 cm deep, with a couple of centimeters between them. After two true leaves emerge, the seedlings are pricked out.

Site preparation also requires attention:

• A bright, warm location is essential. Only in such conditions can the maximum yield be achieved from each plant.
• The second important point is fertilization. Soil rich in minerals and nutrients significantly increases the chances of a truly bountiful harvest. Therefore, when preparing a site for tomatoes, it's essential to add compost, phosphorus, and potassium-rich manure to the soil.
• Loosening the top layer of soil completes the preparation of the area for planting.

Planting seedlings and further care

With the arrival of May, the grown material is planted in open ground; if grown in a greenhouse, the transplant can be done much earlier. No special skills or knowledge are required.

All seedlings are planted in moistened holes approximately 15 cm deep, spaced 40-50 cm apart. The recommended planting density is 6 plants per square meter. However, a support system should be considered already at this stage, as the first harvest can be expected as early as 80 days.

Further care for Fatima tomatoes consists of the following:

1. Timely watering – overly dry soil is detrimental to any tomato plant. If the weather is warm, watering can be done once every 2-3 days; on cloudy and cool days, water about once a week. However, if the sun is strong and the weather is extremely hot, watering should be done daily.
2. Fertilizing will ensure confident growth and the strength to bear fruit. The first fertilizing should be done a week and a half after planting, and repeated several times throughout the season.
3. This variety does not require pinching.
4. Periodic loosening of the soil around the bush. The main goal is to prevent a hard crust from forming on the soil surface.
5. Timely staking of tomatoes. This can be done using a pre-prepared trellis, driving in stakes, or using supporting cages. This work should not be neglected.

Diseases and disadvantages of the variety

Unlike its relatives, this variety is considered one of the hardiest tomatoes with a strong immune system. This is why it's loved by both seasoned and inexperienced gardeners. It's resistant to late blight and extremely resistant to other destructive diseases, such as powdery mildew. And if your plant does get sick, don't give up. Treatment with fungicides will quickly restore the diseased plant to health.

Another issue is pests. A variety of insects can significantly spoil the rosy picture. To combat them, it's necessary to use pest control products designed for this purpose.

The difficulty of harvesting the seeds is a definite drawback of this variety. The Fatima tomato has a small number of chambers inside, where the seeds ripen for the next season. If a gardener strives for complete independence from stores, this feature will come as a surprise. In all other respects, Fatima tomatoes are beyond reproach.

Reviews and experiences from those who have already grown the Fatima tomato

Among those who have ever tried growing these tomatoes, it's hard to find anyone dissatisfied. Some praise them for their high yield, while others appreciate their disease resistance.

Some vegetable growers, despite the fact that this variety thrives without side-sonning, still perform this procedure. The result: large, juicy fruits that truly impress with their luxurious appearance.

There's also an important caveat. Tomato seedlings don't boast a marketable appearance, so gardeners unfamiliar with the variety often avoid them when shopping. But experts say there's no need to worry, as the results will exceed all expectations.