Tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables cultivated in both gardens and farm fields. However, these plants face challenges in cold or hot, dry locations where the growing season is relatively short for most available tomato varieties. 'Desert Dew' was bred alongside other varieties, such as 'Ground Jewel' and 'Ground Dew,' to meet the needs of growers in high latitude, altitude regions, and deserts with short growing seasons, offering improved nutritional values
The study on 'Desert Dew' highlights its early maturation, allowing for a quicker harvest compared to traditional tomato varieties. Its determinant growth habit ensures a more uniform fruit set, making it a reliable choice for both home gardeners and commercial producers looking for consistent production in challenging environments.
Designed to withstand temperature fluctuations and optimize resource use, 'Desert Dew' exhibits strong resilience in arid and temperate climates. Its efficient water usage and compact size make it well-suited for container gardening and small-space cultivation while maintaining robust fruit quality and flavor.
The introduction of 'Desert Dew' provides an innovative solution for growers seeking high-performing tomato varieties in short-season regions. With its adaptability and efficiency, this variety contributes to expanding tomato cultivation into areas where traditional varieties may struggle to reach full maturity.
Dr. Chen is an Associate Professor of Plant Biology and Molecular and Cellular Biology at Arizona State University. His research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of DNA break repair, homologous recombination, genome organization and evolution. Chen also develops novel vegetable varieties for short-season locations and space farming
According to Dr. Chen, "My research program focuses on improving tomato varieties for growers and home gardeners in extreme environments, including regions with short growing seasons and desert conditions where water and other resources are limited. 'Desert Dew' has strong potential for cultivation both in northern regions of the United States with short growing seasons and in desert environments. In addition, its enhanced self-pollination mechanism makes it a promising candidate for controlled-environment agriculture, including potential applications in space farming."
The full story can be found on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18325-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
