Tomato Lota F1

Tomato Lota F1 is a determinate hybrid tomato variety specifically designed for open field cultivation. This variety is characterized by its strong plant habit, early maturity, and blocky to oval-shaped fruits. With a focus on high yield potential and excellent disease resistance, Tomato Lota F1 is an ideal choice for commercial tomato farmers aiming for high productivity and quality.

Benefits

• As a determinate hybrid, Tomato Lota F1 grows to a compact size, which is advantageous for open field cultivation. The strong plant habit ensures robustness and stability, supporting the plant’s heavy fruit load.
• This variety matures early, allowing farmers to begin harvesting sooner. Early maturity not only enables quicker returns on investment but also reduces the risk of crop damage from late-season pests and diseases.
• The fruits of Tomato Lota F1 are blocky to oval in shape and exhibit easy and good fruit set. Each fruit weighs between 150 to 170 grams, making them suitable for both fresh market sales and processing.
• The fruits of Tomato Lota F1 are very firm, which enhances their shelf life and transportability. This firmness ensures that the fruits can withstand the rigors of handling and transportation, reaching markets in prime condition.
• Tomato Lota F1 boasts a high yielding potential, with the capacity to produce up to 35 tons per acre (equivalent to 350-400 crates). This high yield is a significant advantage for commercial growers aiming to maximize their productivity and profitability.
• One of the standout features of Tomato Lota F1 is its comprehensive disease resistance profile, including:
• A soil-borne fungal disease that affects the vascular system of the plant.
• Microscopic worms that attack plant roots, causing stunted growth and yield loss.
• Bacterial Speck: A bacterial disease that causes small, dark spots on leaves and fruits.
• Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV): A viral disease that leads to stunted growth and distorted leaves.
• Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV): A viral disease spread by whiteflies, resulting in yellowing and curling of leaves.

Optimal Growing Conditions

Tomato Lota F1 performs exceptionally well in various regions, with notable success in areas such as Loitoktok, Rumuruti, and Narok. These regions provide the ideal conditions for maximizing the yield and quality of this variety.

• Soil and Planting: Tomato Lota F1 thrives in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Proper soil preparation and nutrient management are essential for optimal growth.
• Irrigation: Consistent and adequate watering is crucial, especially during the flowering and fruit-setting stages. Drip irrigation is recommended to maintain soil moisture levels while reducing the risk of foliar diseases.
• Fertilization: A balanced fertilization regimen based on soil tests will ensure the plants receive the necessary nutrients for vigorous growth and high yield.
• Pest and Disease Management: Despite its strong disease resistance, regular monitoring and integrated pest management (IPM) practices should be employed to mitigate any potential pest issues and ensure healthy crop development.