Description of the Elf F1 cherry tomato and general characteristics of the variety

Those who enjoy small-fruited varieties will appreciate growing the Elf F1 tomato. Its beautiful shape and abundance of neat tomatoes on long trusses make it a very decorative plant. However, this hybrid also has its drawbacks.

General characteristics of the plant

Among tomato varieties, there's a special category: cherry tomatoes. They're sometimes called grape tomatoes, referring to their small size and well-filled clusters. The hybrid variety Elf belongs to this category.

The plant is indeterminate, with unlimited growth. The main stem often exceeds 2 m in height, especially when grown in a greenhouse. It is recommended to train the bushes into 1-3 stems and tie them to a trellis.

The fruiting clusters are multi-locular, with numerous, evenly developed ovaries. A cluster can contain up to 15 fruits. The tomatoes on each cluster ripen evenly, almost simultaneously in greenhouse conditions. This makes harvesting easier.

Among the variety's advantages is its resistance to fusarium wilt and cladosporiosis. Harvest survival is quite high even under adverse conditions, and with proper care, it can reach 100%. The bushes require no chemical treatment and bear fruit even in cool, rainy weather. They are also drought-resistant.

Experienced gardeners report that greenhouses produce 15-20% more tomatoes than open-field cultivation. The average yield is approximately 10 kg per square meter. Fruiting is extended, from mid- or late July until the end of the season.

Like all cherry tomatoes, this variety has a drawback: excessive side shoot formation. To ensure a good harvest, gardeners will need to constantly monitor the growth of side shoots and remove them promptly. Overgrown side shoots should not be pulled out, as this could damage the main stem. They can be pinched off above the first inflorescence. This prevents the bush from becoming dense without damaging it.

Fruit characteristics

The Elf variety produces numerous striking plum-shaped tomatoes. The tomatoes, weighing 15-20 grams each, are borne in elegant, neat clusters of 10-15 equally sized fruits, as seen in the photo. Ripe tomatoes are a deep red, with a smooth, shiny surface.

The skin of the fruit is strong and thick. Elf tomatoes begin to crack only when very overripe. These small tomatoes offer excellent transportability, due not only to the density of the skin but also to the special properties of the tomato pulp.

The flesh of these small berries is dense. Those who have grown the Elf variety in their gardens note that even when perfectly ripe, the tomatoes have a slight crunch. At the same time, the tomatoes are quite juicy, but have virtually no seed chambers.

The flavor is exceptional. The fruits have a high sugar content (6.8%) and a distinct sweet taste. The Elf tomato variety has a fruity aroma. When grown outdoors in cool weather, the flavor may shift to a sweet and sour note.

Tomatoes are versatile. Small, plump, and attractive, they look stunning in marinades. They're also delicious fresh, in salads and summer appetizers. Cherry tomatoes can be used to garnish sandwiches, dishes, and drinks. They're also suitable for making lecho. Small tomatoes aren't very effective for juice production.

Agrotechnical requirements

The Elf variety is early maturing (90-95 days). It is recommended to sow the seeds for seedlings 50-60 days before transplanting to a permanent location. Sow in boxes, thoroughly moistening the soil and scattering the seeds over it. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of dry soil or sand (up to 0.5 cm). Cover the box with glass and germinate the seeds in a warm place. Seedlings will appear within 4-5 days.

Seedlings should be pricked out when they are about two weeks old. At this time, 2-3 true leaves appear on the tomatoes. Actively growing tomatoes should be spaced 10x10 cm apart or placed in individual pots. As the seedlings grow and the leaves close, the pots should be moved further apart.

If the seedlings have become very elongated by the time they're planted, they can be planted horizontally. To do this, place the stem in a trench and cover it with soil, leaving 4-5 leaves above the surface. The young plant will develop numerous additional roots, which promotes better growth and nourishment.

When Elf tomatoes reach a height of 15-20 cm, they should be tied to a support. The tie should be placed under the fully formed flower cluster. It's best to position subsequent attachment loops to the support in the same location to prevent the stem from breaking under the weight of the fruit. Side shoots should be removed, leaving only 1-2 additional stems at the bottom of the plant.