Tomato 'ACE 55 VF'

60 Seeds

'ACE 55 VF' is a reliable, determinate tomato variety producing medium to large, firm, flavorful fruits with low acidity. The VF indicates resistance to Verticillium Wilt (V) and Fusarium Wilt (F). It is excellent for fresh eating, slicing, salads, sauces, and cooking. In the Gulf region, tomatoes should be grown during the cool season for the best yield and fruit quality.

Best Planting Time

• August to November (ideal)
• A second planting is possible from January to early February in cooler Gulf areas.
• Avoid planting during late spring and summer due to excessive heat.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 2–4 hours before sowing to encourage quicker germination.
• Use fresh, high-quality seeds.

Soil Preparation

Tomatoes thrive in fertile, loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Sandy loam soil
• 30% Well-rotted compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–6.8

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds in seed trays or small pots.
• Plant seeds 0.5 cm deep.
• Cover lightly with fine soil.
• Keep the soil evenly moist until germination.
• Transplant seedlings when they are 4–6 weeks old with 4–6 true leaves.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 22–28°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 18–30°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• In warm Gulf spring weather, light afternoon shade helps reduce heat stress.

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist during germination.
• Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Maintain even watering to prevent fruit cracking.
• Avoid wetting the foliage whenever possible.

Germination Time

• 5–10 days

Plant Spacing

• 45–60 cm between plants.
• 75–90 cm between rows.

Harvest

• Harvest approximately 75–85 days after transplanting.
• Pick fruits when they develop a deep red color but are still firm.
• Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.

Fertilization

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced tomato fertilizer.
• Increase potassium during flowering and fruit development for higher-quality tomatoes.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen after flowering.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow only during the cooler season.
• Use mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
• Stake or cage plants to support heavy fruit.
• Water early in the morning.
• Ensure good air circulation around plants.
• Monitor for whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, tomato hornworms, early blight, and powdery mildew.
• Although resistant to Verticillium Wilt and Fusarium Wilt, rotate crops every season to maintain healthy soil.