Characteristics and description of the tomato "Purple Russian"

This tomato variety, developed by Ukrainian breeders, is quite young. For gardeners who aren't afraid to experiment and try something new and little-known, this variety is ideal.

Characteristics and description of the variety

The Purple Russian tomato variety is a mid-season variety. It takes 110-125 days from germination to harvest. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.

The bush is indeterminate and has medium foliage. It requires staking and shaping. Its height varies from 120 to 180 cm, depending on the growing method. The leaves are regular, dark green, and medium-sized.

The plum-shaped fruits weigh 100 grams. The ripe tomato is burgundy-purple in color. The surface is smooth and glossy. The skin is firm. The flesh is juicy, firm, and fleshy. Inside the fruit are 3-4 chambers containing small seeds. The tomato has a sweet, slightly tart flavor and an aromatic aroma.

The variety's yield depends on the cultivation method. When grown in a greenhouse, the yield is 5-6 kg per plant. When grown outdoors, the yield is 4-4.5 kg per plant.

This variety has versatile uses. It can be eaten fresh, canned whole, or used for industrial processing.

Disadvantages and advantages of the variety

Pros: versatility of tomato use, good transportability, excellent taste, can be grown in all regions of Russia, partial resistance to the main tomato diseases, stress resistance.

Disadvantages: does not tolerate sudden temperature changes well, requires tying and shaping the bush.

Timing of sowing for seedlings

Seeds are sown for seedlings 55-65 days before planting in their permanent location. In temperate Russia, this is early March.

Choose light, fertile soil. A mixture of humus, sand, and turf in a ratio of 3:1:1 works well. Fill the containers with this mixture, moisten it, and plant the seeds 1-1.5 cm deep. Cover the top of the container with plastic and store in a warm place.

The required temperature for rapid seed germination is 19-22 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, the first shoots will appear in 4-6 days. If the temperature is below 19 degrees Celsius, the first shoots should not be expected for at least 10-15 days.

Once the first shoots emerge, remove the plastic wrap and move the seedlings to a warm, bright windowsill or under artificial lighting. The optimal temperature for normal seedling growth is 23-25°C (73-77°F) during the day and 19-22°C (65-72°F) at night. Daylight hours should be at least 16 hours per day. If daylight hours are shorter, provide additional lighting for a few hours during the dark hours.

Once the seedlings have grown 2-3 natural leaves, transplant them into a separate container or a larger one. After this process, it's a good idea to feed the seedlings with a full range of mineral supplements.

Seedlings should be watered regularly but moderately. Avoid overwatering and waterlogging. This can lead to plant disease or even death.

Growing and caring for the variety

Seedlings are transplanted into permanent locations after the danger of frost has passed. They are planted in greenhouses and temporary shelters once the soil has warmed sufficiently.

Choose a sunny, wind-free planting site. Prepare the soil in advance. Clear away debris and weeds, add fertilizer, and dig thoroughly. Let the soil rest for two days. Then, dig holes measuring 50 x 40 cm. Place a stake in the hole to serve as a support for the plant. Place a tablespoon of ash at the bottom of the hole. Place the seedling on top and cover with soil. Water generously with warm, settled water.

Initially, watering should be done daily, but moderately. Once the seedlings have established themselves, watering is reduced to three times a week. Watering is resumed during the period of active fruiting.

This variety is very responsive to fertilizer. It's recommended to fertilize it four times per season. The first application is made a few days after planting the plant in its permanent location. The second application is made 10 days after the first. The third application is made during flowering and fruit set. The fourth application is made when the tomatoes are ripening.

It's best to train the plant into 2-3 trunks. This will increase the variety's yield and distribute the fruit load throughout the plant.

Reviews from those who grew the variety

According to gardeners and summer residents, the Russian Purple variety is very good. Its unusual color and shape are very appealing. It transports well and is popular with buyers. It's great for canning whole fruits. And it's simply irreplaceable in fresh salads.