Heinz 3402 F1 is a tomato hybrid from Heinz Seed, recognized for its superior fruit quality and excellent adaptability to various growing conditions. This determinate-growth hybrid is characterized by a concentrated fruiting period, allowing for faster and more efficient harvesting. Heinz 3402 F1 is ideal for industrial cultivation, especially for producing tomato paste, juice, and ketchup, due to its high solid content and balanced taste.
Key Features of Heinz 3402 F1:
- Growth Type:
- Determinate, meaning the fruits ripen within a concentrated time frame, facilitating quick and efficient harvesting.
- Fruits:
- Large fruits, approximately 180–200 g, round, uniform, and deep red in color.
- High solid content, making them ideal for processing.
- Balanced flavor, suitable for producing tomato-based products like paste and juice.
- Genetic Resistances:
- Tolerant to tomato mosaic virus (ToMV), fusarium wilt (Fol), verticillium wilt (Vd), nematodes (Mi), and anthracnose (Cf).
- Adaptability:
- Suitable for open fields as well as greenhouses and tunnels, performing well under various cultivation conditions.
- Use:
- Perfect for processing due to the high solid content and fruit quality. Widely used in the production of tomato paste, juice, and ketchup.
Advantages of Heinz 3402 F1:
- Superior Processing Quality: Firm-textured fruits with high solid content are perfect for the food industry.
- High Productivity: Concentrated fruiting ensures quick and efficient harvests.
- Disease Resistance: Genetic tolerances contribute to healthier crops and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
- Flexible Cultivation: Can be grown in open fields and protected environments, making it versatile across different growing conditions.
- Efficient Harvesting: The concentrated fruiting period simplifies harvesting and reduces management time.
Cultivation Recommendations:
- Plant Density:
- 3–4 plants per square meter in open-field cultivation.
- 4–5 plants per square meter in greenhouses or tunnels.
- Fertilization:
- Balanced fertilization, focusing on potassium and phosphorus to support fruit development and enhance solid content.
- Irrigation:
- Consistent and moderate watering to prevent water stress and ensure uniform fruit development.
- Staking:
- Plant support is necessary to prevent stem breakage and ensure optimal fruit growth.
Conclusion:
Heinz 3402 F1 is the ideal tomato hybrid for farmers seeking crops intended for processing. Its large fruits, high solid content, and balanced taste make it perfect for producing tomato paste, juice, and ketchup. Its versatility allows for successful cultivation in open fields as well as greenhouses or tunnels, offering a rapid, concentrated, and efficient harvest.
