Description of the Gnome tomato series: growing rules and care

The Gnome tomato is the name of a whole series of different varieties. They share a common characteristic: the bushes of all varieties are determinate, meaning they stop growing on their own after producing several fruit clusters. This allows gardeners to harvest tomatoes early and abundantly.

General characteristics of the series

The varieties of the Dwarf tomato series were bred simultaneously in different countries.

The selection work was based on the requirements for compactness of plants, early maturity and dessert taste of fruits:

• Tomatoes can be grown both in open and closed ground, placing 5-6 bushes per 1 m²;
• the bushes branch weakly and practically do not form side shoots, making the work of the vegetable grower easier;
• the first harvest can be obtained 85-110 days after seed germination;
• any variety from the series can be grown as a balcony option (in a tub or box);
• the taste is sweet, with a characteristic tomato aroma, but in fruits with a dark color these qualities are expressed more strongly;
• Due to the early harvest period, the plants are not susceptible to late blight and macrosporiosis.

Representatives of the Gnome tomato series can be low-growing (40-50 cm) or reach a height of 130 cm. The average yield from 1 bush for dwarf plants is 3-4 kg, and tall ones can produce 5-6 kg.

A distinctive feature of the Gnome series varieties is the large fruit size of the compact varieties. Even miniature bushes produce fruits weighing up to 150 g, and some new varieties grow up to 300 g. Due to the weight of the brushes, the stems lie down, so it is recommended to grow them with a garter to a support.

The Gnome tomato series comes in a variety of colors, as you can see in the photo. Breeders pay close attention not only to the technical properties of the varieties but also to their decorative qualities. The series includes both green-fruited and dark-fruited varieties. There are also tomatoes with pink, golden, and orange hues. But the most beautiful are the striped (Ferokovkay, Polosaty Anto) and bicolor (Boy s stenyu).

Description of some varieties

In Russia, there are approximately 20 varieties of the Gnome tomato series, suitable for local conditions. Breeders continue to develop the series, and new varieties are constantly appearing on the market:

1. The recently released American-bred tomato variety "New Big Dwarf" possesses all the best characteristics of the series. The variety's characteristics and description indicate that these are early-ripening plants, with fruits ripening 110 days after sowing. Ripe tomatoes are a rich pinkish-red color. The flat, round fruits weigh 200-300 g, have a fleshy texture, and a sweet taste. They are ideal for fresh consumption, as well as for processing into juice or puree (tomato paste, lecho). The height of the bush is 90-100 cm.
2. The Dwarf Arctic Rose variety is a miniature tomato. The bush grows to 40 cm tall and can be grown on a balcony or window. It also thrives in open ground. The pink fruits are sweet and weigh 100-150 g. A common drawback of tomatoes grown in open ground is the formation of a greenish spot near the stem.
3. One of our new varieties is the Gnome Sweet Sue tomato. The bushes are compact, reaching 50-60 cm in height. The plant's smooth, spherical fruits are distinctive. The skin is golden, and the tomato weighs up to 140 g. The flesh has a delicate melon-like consistency and a very sweet flavor.
4. The fruits of the new tomato variety, "Gnome Purple Heart," boast an exotic coloring, with the chocolate-purple hue extending not only to the skin but also to the flesh. The texture is tender, the flavor is sweet, and the aroma is fruity. The plant grows as a standard, tall (up to 70 cm), and requires support. This variety is recommended for indoor cultivation.

The cultivation technology of the Gnome tomato series is not complicated:

• sowing for seedlings is done 2 months before planting;
• when 1-2 true leaves form, the seedlings are pricked out according to the 7x7 cm pattern;
• planting is carried out in early May (in closed ground) or in the first ten days of June;
• When setting and filling fruits, it is important to ensure sufficient moisture.

If tomatoes are planted in a dense pattern (5-6 pcs./1 m²), then as they grow, it is advisable to remove the lower leaves.

Vegetable growers about Gnome tomatoes

Reviews from those who have planted Gnome tomatoes in their gardens are always positive, both in terms of the overall yield and their excellent taste. However, gardeners who have grown this variety in greenhouses sometimes find it less beneficial due to the low growth habit and determinate nature of the plants: the tomatoes would have produced fruit longer indoors. These same gardeners believe the Gnome series is ideal for open ground cultivation and express a desire to plant these tomatoes again next season.