Maria

Genetic Profile and Indeterminate Growth

The 'Maria' tomato is a product of professional breeding by the N. I. Vavilov Institute of General Genetics. As an indeterminate variety, it requires dedicated canopy management, including stem pruning and robust trellising. With a maturity cycle ranging from 130 to 150 days, this variety is categorized as late-season. Proper nutrient management, focusing on nitrogen-to-potassium ratios, is essential for this variety to ensure the plant directs energy into heavy fruit development rather than excessive foliage growth.

Fruit Morphology and Commercial Specifications

The breeding team (Zhidkova V. A., Mihed V. S., Altukhov Y. P.) successfully stabilized a unique fruit shape that blends heart-like and plum-like characteristics. This specific trait contributes to a high fruit density and meatiness. With an average fruit weight exceeding 200 grams, the variety exhibits a low susceptibility to cracking, which is a critical trait for late-ripening, large-fruited tomatoes.

• Growth Habit: Indeterminate (requires staking/pruning).
• Maturity Period: 130–150 days.
• Fruit Specs: Red, >200g, heart-plum hybrid shape.
• Key Technical Advantage: High fruit density and genetic consistency from a renowned research institute.

For professional growers, 'Maria' serves as a reliable late-season option. Its physiological requirements necessitate consistent potassium applications during the fruit-fill stage to maintain structure and density. Because of its 200g+ fruit weight, the plant must be monitored for mechanical load on the clusters to ensure optimal distribution of assimilates throughout the ripening period.