The variety of tomatoes “Banana legs” is a masterpiece of the painstaking work of Swedish breeders. It belongs to mid-season varieties, for the cultivation of which special conditions are required to maintain a constant temperature and humidity. Therefore, in the conditions of the middle lane, gardeners breed these varieties only in greenhouse conditions.
The bush is formed tall with thin branches, on which 6-8 small yellow fruits usually ripen (on average, the weight of the fruit is about 70-100 grams). Distinctive features of the Banana Legs tomato are that it is very responsive to fertilizing with fertilizers containing nitrogen, is high-yielding and has a specific taste. Fresh fruits have a distinct citrus flavor.
Distinctive features and description of the variety of tomatoes “Banana legs”
In open ground, this variety is to be grown only in warm climatic conditions. As a rule, gardeners prefer to plant Banana Legs tomato seedlings in a greenhouse or under film shelters.
- plant height, on average, ranges from 70 to 120 centimeters;
- fruit ripening period – 2-2,5 months;
- weight of tomatoes from 70 to 100 grams;
- the yield of one plant is 4,5-6,5 kilograms.
What is the uniqueness of this tomato variety?
The exotic name of this variety fully justifies the unusual taste and shape of the fruit. This is the main distinguishing feature and advantage of the Banana Legs tomato. Characteristics and description of fruits:
- The skin of the tomato is soft, has a pearly hue and a bright yellow color.
- The shape also differs from the usual tomato, and rather resembles a bell pepper: elongated, having a pointed downwards.
- The fruit is juicy and fleshy, there are few seeds in it.
- The original memorable taste: a delicate shade of citrus.
How to properly care for a plant?
Seeds of this variety of tomatoes are distinguished by a high percentage of germination. To begin with, they are germinated in a warm, moist substrate, and then planted. Landing in open ground is possible only in heated greenhouses or at a soil temperature of at least 20-22 ° C. In other cases, it is necessary to grow a tomato seedling. When the young shoots get stronger, after about 55-65 days, you can transplant them into a greenhouse or under a film cover.
A prerequisite for the normal development of plants is timely picking, which must be carried out at the phase of 1-3 true leaves. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that an adult bush should have 3-5 stems. This will ensure maximum yield.
Since the stems of the tomato are thin and brittle, they need to be tied up, providing additional support.
The general principles of caring for tomatoes are quite applicable to this variety. So that the plant does not get sick and brings a rich harvest, you should periodically loosen the soil and water only with warm water in the hole.
It is worth remembering that excess moisture, especially in warm weather, can be fatal. Rotting usually starts from the bottom of the bush and gradually spreads higher. Therefore, you do not need to be zealous with watering, and the greenhouse with tomatoes must be regularly ventilated.
Disease susceptibility
Variety of tomato “Banana legs” is resistant to diseases and pests. However, in the absence of proper care and prevention of typical diseases, plant infection is possible. The most typical lesion is phytophthora.
Phytophthora usually begins to appear on tomatoes in August, but tomatoes can get sick even earlier – in July. This is a direct consequence of the cold nights and abundant morning dew.
The main factors in the development of the disease are low ambient temperature and high humidity. Thickened plantings also contribute to the appearance of phytophthora. Therefore, excess leaves must be cut off to improve the ventilation of the bushes.
If the weather is dry and sunny, then infection usually does not occur. The spores that Phytophthora reproduces do not tolerate exposure to direct sunlight. To protect tomatoes from this disease, try to create an optimal temperature regime in the greenhouse, ventilate regularly and prevent excessive accumulation of moisture.
In the video, the Banana Legs tomato variety is presented in a section, and the author also gives advice on what can be cooked with this variety.
The use of tomatoes in cooking
The fruits of this variety are great for fresh salads. They are often added to give the dish an original, with a slight citrus tinge, taste. And fresh tomatoes simply served at the table make a favorable impression due to their unusual shape and color.
The best way to cook Banana Legs tomatoes is salting and pickling.
You can pickle such tomatoes separately, as an independent snack, or prepare an interesting assortment of different types of vegetables by adding bell peppers, cucumbers, cauliflower or squash. In any case, the appearance and taste will exceed all expectations!
