Tomato San Marzano (Solanum lycopersicum San Marzano) Pollination Information

Tomato San Marzano is a popular variety of plum tomato that is widely used for making sauces and canning. Proper pollination is essential for the development of healthy fruits. Here are some key facts about pollination of Tomato San Marzano:

Type of Pollination:

Tomato plants are self-pollinating, which means that they have both male and female reproductive parts within the same flower. The pollen is transferred from the anthers to the stigma within each flower for pollination to occur.

Pollination Method:

Tomato San Marzano plants can be pollinated naturally by bees, butterflies, and other flying insects. These insects help in transferring pollen between flowers, leading to the formation of fruit. You can also hand-pollinate tomato plants by gently shaking the flowers or using a small brush to transfer pollen.

Factors Affecting Pollination:

• Temperature: Optimal temperatures for pollination range between 60-85°F. Extreme heat or cold can affect pollination success.
• Humidity: Tomato plants require moderate humidity levels for proper pollination. Low humidity can lead to poor pollen viability.
• Pollinator Presence: Having a diverse population of pollinators in the garden can improve pollination rates.

Signs of Successful Pollination:

After successful pollination, you will notice the development of small green fruits at the base of the flower. These fruits will gradually grow in size and ripen into mature tomatoes over time.

By ensuring proper pollination of your Tomato San Marzano plants, you can expect a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes for your culinary creations.

Tomato San Marzano FAQ

What is a San Marzano tomato?

The San Marzano tomato is a type of plum tomato that is known for its sweet flavor, low acidity, and firm texture. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine, particularly in making sauces and canning.

How do I plant San Marzano tomato seeds?

San Marzano tomato seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Plant the seeds in a seed starting mix, keeping them moist and warm until they sprout. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

How do I care for San Marzano tomato plants?

San Marzano tomato plants require full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering. They should be staked or caged to support their growth and prevent the fruit from touching the ground. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so fertilize them regularly with a balanced fertilizer.

When are San Marzano tomatoes ready to harvest?

San Marzano tomatoes are typically ready to harvest 80-90 days after planting. They should be picked when they are fully ripe but still firm to the touch. The tomatoes will continue to ripen after they are picked, so you can harvest them slightly underripe if needed.

How do I store San Marzano tomatoes?

San Marzano tomatoes should be stored at room temperature until they are fully ripe. Once ripe, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also can or freeze the tomatoes for longer storage.

Can I save seeds from San Marzano tomatoes?

Yes, you can save seeds from San Marzano tomatoes for planting next year. Simply remove the seeds from a ripe tomato, rinse off the pulp, and dry them on a paper towel. Store the dried seeds in a cool, dark place until you are ready to plant them.

About Tomato San Marzano

Tomato San Marzano (Solanum lycopersicum San Marzano) is a popular heirloom tomato variety known for its oblong shape and rich, sweet flavor. It is commonly used in sauces and canning due to its high pulp content and low seed count.

Planting

• Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.
• Plant your San Marzano tomato plants after the last frost date in your area.
• Space plants approximately 2 feet apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart.
• Plant the seedlings deep, up to the first set of leaves, to encourage strong root growth.

Care

• Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.
• Support the plants with stakes or cages to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight of the fruit.
• Prune any suckers that develop in the leaf axils to promote better air circulation and fruit production.

Harvesting

San Marzano tomatoes typically take 75-80 days to mature. Harvest when the fruits are fully red and firm to the touch. They can be eaten fresh or used in cooking and canning.