Tomato varieties study concerning produtivity and resistance to diseases

Abstract

Three field experiments were conducted comparing tomato varieties grown in Minas Gerais (Caqui and Maçã) with varieties obtained from North America (Manalucie and Floradel). The varieties from Minas Gerais showed several undesirable characteristics which resulted in lower productivity or reduced their commercial value. The results suggest: a) Yield and number of fruits per plant: small differences in favor of the Floradel variety; b) Weight of fruits: no statistical differences between varieties; c) Fruit infections by Alternaria solani: no significant differences between varieties. Two reasons are given. Two of the experiments were conducted during the winter when conditions are unfavorable for fungus development. When the experiment was conducted during the summer a fugicide (Carbane "S", 36% copper oxychloride and 12% carbatene) was used; d) Fusarium wilt: no occurrence; e) Occurrence of open locule: Maçã (IPEACO's selection) and Caqui (Felicíssimo's selection) varieties showed more susceptibility; f) Growth cracks (radial and concentric): Maçã (IPEACO's selection) and Caqui (IPEACO and Felicíssimo's selections) showed very low degree of resistance, whereas, Manalucie and Floradel showed high degree of resistance.