Overview
Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller is a wild tomato species that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is commonly known as the sticky tomato plant, as it is covered in tiny, sticky hairs. It is native to North and South America and is commonly found in Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.General Appearance
The Lycopersicon glandulosum plant is a sprawling vine that can grow up to two meters in length. Its leaves are fuzzy, oval-shaped, and green, and it produces yellow flowers that are about one centimeter in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a small, red berry, about the size of a cherry tomato, that is also covered in tiny sticky hairs.Common Uses
Lycopersicon glandulosum is not commonly used for culinary purposes due to its sour taste and small size, but it is used in traditional medicine in some parts of the world. In Peru, the leaves of the plant are crushed and used as a poultice to treat skin irritations and infections. The fruit has also been used to treat digestive problems and high blood pressure. The plant's wild relatives are often incorporated into modern tomato breeding programs, as they contain genes that offer resistance to pests and diseases.Cultivation
Lycopersicon glandulosum can be grown from seed in the same way as other tomato species, but it requires warm temperatures and well-draining soil. The plant prefers full sun and regular watering, and it can be grown outdoors or in a greenhouse. Its small size makes it suitable for container gardening. In conclusion, Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller is a wild tomato species that has a number of potential uses in traditional medicine and tomato breeding programs. Its sticky leaves and fruit make it easy to identify, and it can be grown in a variety of conditions.Light Requirements
Lycopersicon glandulosum C.H. Muller prefers bright, direct sunlight for optimum growth and fruiting. A minimum of six hours of sunlight per day is required for the plant to thrive. They are not able to grow well in shades and therefore, they should receive sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but thrives at a moderate temperature ranging from 68°F-75°F. They do not tolerate extreme temperatures and frost conditions. Therefore, it is best to plant them in areas with mild temperatures. Optimum temperatures ensure proper growth, fruiting and help to avoid diseases.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. They can grow well in sandy or loamy soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. The soil should be well-aerated to promote root growth and prevent root diseases. Adequate soil moisture is necessary for optimum growth which can be achieved through regular watering. Nevertheless, waterlogged soils should be avoided as they may result in root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Lycopersicon Glandulosum C. H. Muller
The Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller plant prefers a well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Ensure that you plant it in an area with at least six hours of direct sunlight. This plant can grow up to three feet in height, so provide enough space for it to spread out.
It is best to grow Lycopersicon glandulosum from seeds indoors before planting them outside. Start the seeds six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings out once the temperature remains above freezing at night.
Watering Needs for Lycopersicon Glandulosum C. H. Muller
Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller plants prefer a consistent supply of moisture. Water your tomato plants regularly, making sure the soil does not dry out. Deep watering at least once a week is necessary, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overhead watering as it can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, water the plants at ground level.
Fertilization for Lycopersicon Glandulosum C. H. Muller
Start with a slow-release fertilizer when first planting Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller. Once the plants start producing fruit, switch to a fertilizer high in potassium every two weeks. Tomatoes love phosphorus too, so ensure your soil has an adequate supply of it. Use organic fertilizers like compost tea for the best results.
Pruning of Lycopersicon Glandulosum C. H. Muller
Prune your Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller plants to improve their overall health and increase yield. Remove the suckers, which are shoots growing from where the main stem meets the branches. Pinch them off when they are still small to avoid creating open wounds that can attract pests and diseases.
Additionally, cut the lower branches that touch the ground, allowing for good airflow and reducing the risk of soil-borne diseases. Remove yellowing leaves and diseased branches as soon as you notice them. Encourage vigorous growth by removing the top few inches of new plant growth once they reach the desired height.
Propagation of Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller
Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller, commonly known as wild tomato or currant tomato, is a wild relative of the cultivated tomato plant. It is native to South America and has been introduced to other parts of the world. Propagation of Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller is done through different methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
This is the most common way of propagating Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller. The seeds are collected from fully ripe fruits and are sown in seed trays filled with a good quality soil mix. The seed trays are watered adequately and covered to retain moisture. Germination occurs within 7-14 days, and the seedlings are transferred to individual pots once they have developed two or more true leaves. The seedlings are then hardened by gradually exposing them to sunlight and the outdoor environment.
Vegitative Propagation
Vegitative propagation, also known as vegetative reproduction, involves multiplying plants from vegetative parts, such as stems, leaves or roots. In Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller, this method is not commonly used. However, it can be done by taking stem cuttings from vigorous plants. The cuttings are then planted in pots filled with a good quality soil mix and placed in a shaded area. The stem cuttings need to have at least two nodes, and the lower leaves should be removed to prevent water loss. The cuttings should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist.
Division
Division involves separating a portion of an existing plant from the main plant to create a new individual. It is not commonly used for propagating Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture involves growing cells, tissues or organs under controlled conditions. In Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller, this method is not commonly used for propagation due to its wild nature and the availability of seeds.
In conclusion, Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller can be propagated through seed propagation and, to a lesser extent, through vegetative propagation. The most effective method is seed propagation done in seed trays, followed by gradual exposure to sunlight and the outdoor environment.
Disease Management
Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller is susceptible to various diseases that can impact its yield and growth. Here are the most common diseases that affect this plant:
Early Blight
This disease is a fungal infection caused by Alternaria solani. It is identified by the appearance of circular, brown, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn into brown lesions with target-like rings. For managing early blight, it is recommended to practice crop rotation, planting resistant cultivars, and applying organic fungicides.
Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium wilt is caused by the soil-borne fungus Verticillium dahliae. It can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and may also lead to stunted plant growth, premature yellowing of the leaves, and reduced yield. Crop rotation and application of fungicides can help manage this disease.
Bacterial Spot
Xanthomonas campestris is the bacterial pathogen that causes bacterial spot. This disease primarily affects leaves and fruits, causing small, water-soaked spots to appear that eventually enlarge and turn necrotic. The best way to manage bacterial spot is to use pathogen-free seeds, maintain proper plant hygiene, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Pest Management
Lycopersicon glandulosum C. H. Muller can attract several pests that can harm the plant. Here are the most common pests that affect this plant:
Aphids
Aphids are a common pest that feed on the sap of the plants. They can cause curling, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves. Introducing natural predators that feed on aphids, like ladybugs and lacewings, can help control their population. Additionally, using organic insecticides can be an effective way to manage aphids.
Tobacco Hornworms
The tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta) can cause significant damage to the tomato plants, especially during the late summer season. Some of the symptoms of their infestation include defoliation, caterpillar droppings, and eaten or scarred fruits. Preventing their infestation can be done by removing them when seen, and using natural predators like wasps and birds to control the population.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of brown or gray night-flying moths. These pests feed on the plants at night and can cause significant damage to the tomato seedlings. Some of the symptoms of their infestation include cuts on the stem of the plant, resulting in sudden death. Hand-picking the cutworms and using biological control measures can help manage these pests.
