Variegated Tomato Plants: How to Grow Uniquely Colored Bushes in Your Garden
Variegation is a genetic occurrence in which the leaves of certain plants display different colors, usually yellow and green. Variegated varieties are becoming increasingly popular among gardeners due to their unique appearance.
It is possible for tomato plants to be variegated, as there are several known varieties that have this trait. For example, Moonlight Mile and Falens First Snow both feature variegated foliage. It's also possible for a plant to become variegated after taking a lateral cutting from another variety that has this trait.
In some cases, the variegation may diminish over time or with increased temperatures. Splash of Cream is another variety that features variegation, though it may be a rebranding of Variagated. Additionally, David's Ivory Pineapple does not mention any variegation in its description, so it's likely that any variegation present on this variety is the result of a cross with another one.
Finally, breeders have been able to create dwarf varieties with variegation by using Variegated as a breeding partner. Blue's Bling is an indeterminate variety featuring purple and yellow/red bicolor foliage that was created by crossing Cherokee Purple with Polish and Little Lucky.
Overall, while it can sometimes be difficult to tell whether a tomato plant will be variegated or not, it is certainly possible for them to exhibit this trait. Gardeners looking for something unique should definitely consider giving these special varieties a try!
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What is variegated foliage?
Variegated foliage is a type of plant leaf that has different colors, usually white and green.
Are there any known varieties with variegated leaves?
Yes, there are a few known varieties, like Moonlight Mile and Variegated. David's Ivory Pineapple does not have variegated foliage. Splash of Cream is another variety that may have variegation.
Can I use a lateral with variegation as a cutting?
Yes, you can use a lateral with variegation as a cutting and it should increase the variegation as the plant grows larger.
Is it possible to have a cross with a variegated one?
Yes, it is possible to have a cross with a variegated one. Generally, variegation diminishes as temperatures increase.
Are there any released dwarfs with variegation?
Yes, there are some released dwarfs with variegation using Variegated for a breeding partner. Blue's Bling is an example of an indeterminate variety with variegated foliage.
Is it possible for the variegation to stay or go as the plant reaches maturity?
Yes, it is possible for the variegation to stay or go as the plant reaches maturity. The previous grower of these seeds reported no variegation on this variety for him, so it could be just a genetic occurrence and not the result of a cross in a previous generation.
Is there any way to increase the variegation?
Yes, there are a few ways to increase the variegation. One way is to grow the plant in cooler temperatures and reduce the amount of light it receives. Another way is to use a fertilizer with higher levels of nitrogen, which can help promote variegation.
Are there any other tips for keeping the variegation?
Yes, there are some other tips for keeping the variegation. Pruning off any leaves that don't have variegation can help keep the variegation on the remaining leaves. Additionally, using a balanced fertilizer and avoiding over-watering can also help maintain the variegation.