Content
In 2011, the Mashenka tomato was recognized as the best among new Russian tomato varieties. And for good reason, since tomatoes are distinguished by their excellent taste, rich color, and ability to grow in open and closed soils. The variety of crop is grown throughout the country. In the southern regions, Mashenka tomatoes are distinguished by high yields, which are not found in well-known European and American tomatoes. Russian breeders worked on varietal characteristics. The originator of the seeds is “Biotechnik” Russia.
Description of tomato Mashenka
The variety is indeterminate, that is, with unlimited stem growth. With proper care it reaches 2 m in height. Tomatoes Mashenka belong to the mid-season type. Technical maturity of the fruit is observed 110-115 days after emergence. The vegetable is also characterized by high yield.
The stem is strong, durable, light brown in color. To obtain maximum results, form 2-3 stems. The root system is fully developed. The plant stays firmly in the ground. There are a lot of leaves on the bush, they are medium in size, juicy, fleshy.The leaf color is dark green. Due to its high growth and numerous lateral shoots, the bush needs to be tied to a strong support.
Brief description and taste of the fruit
The appetizing appearance of Mashenka tomatoes is noticeable in the photo, but the smell and taste are more difficult to convey.
- The shape of the fruit is round. Tomatoes are slightly flattened on top and bottom.
- The color of the tomato is rich, monochromatic, bright red.
- There is no green spot around the stalk. There are also no inclusions.
- The skin is dense, the surface is glossy.
- The core is fleshy and sugary. There are 6 seed chambers.
- Dry substances in pulp – 5%. Sugars – 4%.
- The taste is sweet and sour.
- Fruit ripening is simultaneous.
- The average weight of tomatoes is 200-250 g. The maximum weight is 600 g.
- Tomatoes of the Mashenka variety are stored for 15-20 days.
Tomatoes are mainly consumed fresh or sent for processing. They are prepared with ketchups, tomato pastes, juices, and purees.
Varietal characteristics of tomato Mashenka
The vegetable crop is intended for growing in greenhouses and beds. However, according to reviews and photos of summer residents, the maximum yield from the Mashenka tomato bush can be obtained precisely in closed conditions.
The plant is adapted to unfavorable weather conditions. Does not suffer from temperature changes. Tolerates periods of drought. Mashenka variety tomatoes are resistant to fungal infections. They are immune to Alternaria, Fusarium, mosaic, and late blight.
Aphids and cutworm caterpillars can be dangerous to vegetables. If visible signs of the presence of parasites appear, the bushes should be immediately treated with insecticides: Aktara, Decis Profi, Confidor, Aktellik, Fufanon.
Tomato yield Mashenka
The productivity of tomatoes of the Mashenka variety is high. From one bush you get from 6 to 12 kg of fruit. From 1 sq. m of plantings, 25-28 kg of tomatoes are harvested. But to obtain the desired results, it is important to consider planting density and plant care rules.
Pros and cons of the variety
From the photo, the Mashenka tomato makes a positive impression, but to make the final choice, you should read the description of the variety and consumer reviews. Based on them, it is already possible to compile a list of positive and negative qualities of a vegetable crop.
Advantages:
- high fruiting;
- large fruit size;
- tolerance of unfavorable conditions;
- friendly ripening of tomatoes;
- good taste;
- transportability;
- resistance to major tomato diseases.
Flaws:
- the need for additional care - tying, pinching;
- short shelf life of the crop;
- unlimited bush growth.
Rules for planting and caring for tomatoes of the Mashenka variety
The Mashenka tomato is suitable for growing in the Urals, Volga region, Western and Eastern Siberia, and Central Russia. To cultivate this variety, it is enough to follow general agrotechnical rules.
Sowing seeds for seedlings
Tomatoes of the Mashenka variety are planted in late spring so that they are at least 55–60 days old at the time of planting. The soil chosen is light, loose, fertile. The best option is to buy a special mixture for seedlings. The substrate should be at room temperature or a little warmer. Plastic trays are suitable as containers. Several dozen seeds can be planted in them at the same time. However, as the plants grow, it will be necessary to trim.To get rid of additional work, gardeners plant Mashenka tomato seeds in individual cups.
Before planting, the quality of the seeds is checked. Pour the seeds into a container with a solution of potassium permanganate. The seeds that float to the surface are removed, and the rest are kept in the solution for another couple of hours. The procedure will reduce the risk of plant infection and disinfect planting material. Afterwards, the seeds are soaked in a solution with a growth stimulator for 24 hours.
The good germination of tomato seeds of the Mashenka variety from Biotechnika was noted by users in reviews. During the development process, all varietal characteristics of the crop are also preserved. They don't need soaking.
It is recommended to plant tomato seeds to a depth of 2-3 cm. Afterwards, it is necessary to water them generously with warm water. The container is covered with cellophane or glass to create optimal microclimate parameters. When seeds germinate, an air temperature of + 16 °C is allowed. However, for further full growth and development, it will be necessary to maintain a temperature of + 26–24 °C during the day, and at night not lower than + 18 °C. After seed germination, the cover is removed.
Before planting seedlings in open ground, they are fed with special complex mineral fertilizers. Water the young shoots as the soil dries out. Before transplanting plants outdoors, they should be hardened off. During the day, take the seedlings out into the fresh air or reduce the temperature in the room with the tomatoes.
Transplanting seedlings
Grown Mashenka tomatoes are planted in open ground in mid-May, when the return frosts have passed. There is no need to rush with this; you need to focus on the weather conditions of the growing region.
Mashenka tomatoes respond well to fertile loam. It is preferable to use superphosphate and other complex mineral preparations as soil fertilizers.
Tomato seedlings of the Mashenka variety are recommended to be planted at a distance of 50 cm from each other. The gap between the rows is 60-65 cm. Per 1 sq. m should grow no more than 3 tomato bushes.
Tomato care
The description states that it is necessary to form a tomato bush of the Mashenka variety into one trunk, cutting off all the extra stepsons. As a rule, gardeners leave 3-4 stems on a bush. In this case, there should be no more than 4 brushes on each trunk.
Throughout the growing season, tomatoes of the Mashenka variety need regular watering. In severe drought, moisturizing must be done daily. It is preferable to take settled water at a temperature of + 30 °C.
During the period of fruit formation, Mashenka tomatoes will benefit from root feeding with magnesium sulfate. It is advisable to use humus as an organic fertilizer. During growth, 2-3 fertilization procedures are sufficient.
During the care process, it is also worth loosening the soil around the bush, weeding weeds, carry out preventive spraying. It would be useful to mulch the ground under the bushes with straw or dry grass.
Conclusion
Tomato Mashenka is great for beginner gardeners. Because it does not require special knowledge and skills during the growing process.The plant does not suffer from temperature changes or diseases. The only thing is pinching and tying. There's nothing complicated about it. In general, the variety is productive, and the tomatoes are tasty and large.
Reviews of tomato Mashenka
I really liked the variety, beautiful tomatoes and they bear fruit for a very long time in the greenhouse. I planted them for seedlings at the end of February and planted them on May 8