Overview
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium, also known as Jusl. P. Mill, is a common species of tomato plant originally found in South America.
Common Names
This species goes by a few different names, including wild tomato, currant tomato, Mexican sour gherkin, and cherry tomato.
Uses
While the fruit of Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium is edible, it is generally not used in cooking due to its small size and sour taste. However, it is often used in breeding programs to develop new varieties of commercial tomatoes with desirable traits, such as disease resistance and flavor.
General Appearance
The Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium plant typically grows to be 1-2 meters tall with small, somewhat hairy leaves. Its fruit is small (approximately 1-2 cm in diameter), round, and red when mature.
Light requirements:
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium requires full sunlight for optimum growth and fruiting. It is intolerant to shade, and will not thrive in areas with limited access to direct sunlight.
Temperature requirements:
L. pimpinellifolium grows best in temperatures that range from 18-30ºC (64-86ºF). Temperatures outside this range can affect the plant's growth rate, including the development of flowers, fruit size, and seed production.
Soil requirements:
The plant grows well in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Sandy loam or clay loam soils with high organic matter content are ideal. Excessively acidic or alkaline soils can cause deficiencies in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, leading to stunted growth and nutrient deficiencies.
It is important to note that regular irrigation is necessary to ensure that the soil moisture does not become limiting during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods for Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill.
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill. is a species of wild tomato found in the Andes. To cultivate L. pimpinellifolium, it is important to start with high-quality seeds obtained from reliable sources. The plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It is best to plant the seeds inside at least four to six weeks before the last frost or sow the seeds directly outdoors after the last expected frost date in your area.
Watering Needs for Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill.
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill. requires consistent watering throughout the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week when there is no rainfall. It is important to avoid overhead watering, as water droplets on the foliage can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, use a drip irrigation system or water at the base of the plant.
Fertilization for Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill.
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill. benefits from regular fertilization to support healthy growth and fruiting. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, every two to three weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, use organic fertilizers, such as compost or fish emulsion, every four to six weeks.
Pruning for Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill.
Pruning Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium (Jusl.) P. Mill. is not necessary, but it can improve plant health and fruit production. Remove any suckers, which are shoots that grow between the stem and the branches. Additionally, remove any diseased or damaged leaves and branches as soon as they are noticed. This will prevent the spread of disease and allow the plant to allocate more energy to fruit development.
Propagation of Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium, also known as wild tomato or currant tomato, is a highly variable open-pollinated tomato species that is native to the west coast of South America. It is an important species in tomato breeding programs because of its resistance to pests and diseases and its ability to cross with cultivated tomato varieties.
Propagation Methods
The most common propagation method for L. pimpinellifolium is through seeds. Seeds can be obtained from fresh fruits or purchased from seed companies. Seeds should be collected from healthy and disease-free fruits. The seeds can be directly sown into pots or seed trays filled with a good quality seed compost. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/4 inch and kept moist until germination.
Another propagation method for L. pimpinellifolium is through cuttings. This is a less common method and is mostly used for commercial propagation. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth. The cuttings should be about 2-4 inches in length and dipped in rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be planted into a well-draining potting mix, and kept moist until roots are established.
Finally, L. pimpinellifolium can also be propagated through grafting. This is a method used to produce disease-resistant or high-performance plants. The rootstock used for grafting should be a vigorous and disease-resistant tomato variety. The scion used should come from a desirable L. pimpinellifolium plant. The graft union should be made using a grafting clip after removing the cotyledons of the rootstock. The grafted plants should be kept in a humid environment until graft union is established.
Propagation of Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium through seeds is the most common and easiest method for beginners. However, for commercial propagation, cuttings or grafting may be preferred.
Disease and Pest Management for Lycopersicon Pimpinellifolium
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium, commonly known as the wild tomato, is a species of tomato that is native to South America. While this plant is resistant to many common tomato diseases, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that may cause damage. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Early Blight: This fungal disease is characterized by brown spots on the lower leaves that eventually spread to the upper leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Use a copper fungicide to prevent further spread.
Verticillium Wilt: This soilborne disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. It is difficult to manage once infected. The best approach is to prevent infection by using disease resistant varieties and rotating crops.
Tomato Mosaic Virus: This viral disease causes mottling and mosaic patterns on the leaves. It is spread by infected sap and can persist in weeds. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and maintain good hygiene to avoid spreading the virus.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small insects suck the sap out of the plant, causing curling and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, apply a neem oil or soap solution to the leaves and stems.
Whiteflies: These tiny insects also sap the sap out of the plant and excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which attracts sooty mold. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps and a neem oil or soap solution.
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids also suck the sap out of the plant and cause leaves to yellow and die. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to remove them from the leaves and use an insecticidal soap or oil.
Lycopersicon pimpinellifolium is a hardy plant with good resistance to many common tomato diseases. However, it is still vulnerable to some pests and diseases that can cause damage if not managed effectively. By following the tips and strategies outlined above, you can keep your wild tomato plants healthy and productive.
