Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
SELECTION CHARACTERISTICS Different varieties produce different-sized fruits. Potential selection
criteria:
• vigorous growth
• fruit size
• color of fruit
• yield
• earliness
• resistance to splitting (the fruits of flatter-shaped varieties split far more often than globose varieties)
DISEASES AND PESTS Though tomatillos rarely have problems with pests, they are subject to the vari-
ous viral diseases that affect nightshades. Growers in cooler regions have reported fruits contracting a
tough, black, as yet unidentified fungus. Since this can likely be spread by seeds, destroy infected
fruits.
CULTIVATION HISTORY The wild form grows in Mexico and Guatemala. The tomatillo was domestic-
ated in southwest Mexico, where it is called miltomatl or tomate verde and used as the basis for salsa
verde, a green, usually hot, sauce.
POTATO
Solanum tuberosum
The potato, introduced from the New World to the Old less than 500 years ago, is an important food
staple around the world. Potatoes come in every imaginable shape, size, color, and texture; for ex-
ample, those who have made or tasted Austrian dumplings or Swiss scrambled potatoes, both made
from potato dough, know that these dishes can only be made with fluffy, dry-textured “floury” pota-
toes. Yet the diversity remaining within this one crop plant pales in comparison to the spectrum of
varieties originally brought to and developed in Europe, not to mention the diversity found in the
potato's areas of origin.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
• 25 to 30 potatoes
POLLINATION NOTES Potatoes are selfers, for the most part. They are propagated by seed only for
breeding purposes. Vegetative propagation is the standard method for maintaining varieties.
PROPAGATION We recommend pre-sprouting potatoes to get a head start on growth (up to four
weeks!) compared to non-sprouted potatoes, as well as to help fight diseases like potato blight
( Phytophthora infestans ). Place tubers in flats at 50-60°F (10-15°C) about four weeks before planting
out. Tubers should get light but no direct sunlight. Ideally the tubers will produce shoots 0.5 in. (1 cm)
in length from every eye with well-defined root bumps. Harden off sprouted tubers before planting out
to avoid damage from the cold.
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