Description of the Fakel tomato and characteristics of the fruit, cultivation and planting rules

Fans of compact plants should definitely consider the Fakel tomato, a photo of which can be seen below. These tomatoes have many positive qualities. The most important are their small plant size, high yields even in mild weather conditions, and low maintenance requirements. Given all these factors, Fakel tomatoes are the choice of many Russian gardeners.

Characteristics of the variety

These tomatoes arrived on the Russian market from Moldova. Given that breeders developed this variety for warm climates, Fakel tomatoes are best grown in greenhouses or hotbeds in most parts of Russia. If you're growing in a garden in the southern region, you can plant the seedlings in the ground.

This type of tomato is mid-season. It has a very high yield, and when grown properly, a single bush can produce a huge number of red fruits.

One of the main characteristics of this variety is its low growth. Experts call such plants determinate. However, Fakel tomatoes are quite spreading, so they should not be planted too close together. The foliage on the bush develops very vigorously.

Quite a few leaves and branches can appear in a short period of time. The plant's shape is the source of this variety's name. The bush is thin at the base and widens sharply toward the top, resembling a torch. The plant typically grows to a height of no more than 80 cm.

Proper bush training is crucial. Side shoots should be partially or completely removed. This will positively impact the yield. To obtain a large number of fruits, train the bush with 2-3 stems.

The first ovary should appear above the sixth leaf. Each cluster will produce about seven small red tomatoes.

Description of fruits

The characteristics and description of the variety are as follows:

• The fruits are distinguished by their bright scarlet color and round or slightly oblong shape.
• The tomatoes are small, and their average weight is 100 g.
• If you cut the fruit, you can see 5 chambers with seeds.

The flavor of Fakel tomatoes is simply superb. Their skin is thick enough to transport and jar without cracking. They are excellent for both fresh eating and canning. The tomato juice is especially delicious and beautiful.

These tomatoes are mid-season, so you can harvest them as early as midsummer. Their thick skin ensures a long shelf life. The key is to keep them in a cool place, rather than in hot weather.

Planting rules

To ensure a good yield, the plants need to be properly spaced. It's best to grow Fakel tomatoes from seedlings. This allows for easier monitoring of planting. Given that this variety is quite bushy, avoid planting too closely. Ideally, space 4 to 6 plants per square meter. This will ensure sufficient light access for a good harvest.

With the right approach, you can harvest approximately 10 kg of fruit per square meter. However, to achieve this, you need to carefully train the bushes, water them regularly, and feed them. This variety appreciates fertilizer and will reward a caring owner with a bountiful harvest.

One of the characteristics of this variety is its resistance to most diseases. However, to achieve this, it's important to follow watering guidelines. It's especially important to thoroughly moisten the soil during dry periods. If there is not enough water in hot weather, the fruits may be affected by blossom-end rot and will definitely crack.

Reviews of the tomato are mostly positive.