Tomato is perhaps one of the most eaten vegetables in Nigeria and it is planted across the country.
However, there are different species of this plant and some species are peculiar to different regions of the country.
While there are numerous tomato varieties cultivated in Nigeria, here are three commonly grown species:
1. Roma Tomatoe (Plum Tomatoes):
These oval-shaped tomatoes are known for their low moisture content and dense flesh, making them suitable for processing into sauces and pastes.
2. Money Maker Tomatoes:
This variety is popular for its high yield and round, medium-sized fruits. Money Maker tomatoes are often grown for both local consumption and sale in markets. Growers of this species can maximise their profit very fast due to the yield.
3. Pear-shaped Tomatoes:
This specie is also referred to as cherry tomatoes.
This type includes smaller, elongated varieties with a sweet taste. They are commonly used in salads and snacks.
Remember that these are general categories, and within each species, there can be numerous cultivars with specific characteristics.
Meanwhile, tomatoes in Nigerian farms are prone to various diseases which reduce their yields and general well being. These include:
1. Tomato Bacterial Wilt:
Caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum, bacterial wilt affects the plant’s vascular system, leading to wilting and death.
2. Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV):
This viral disease is transmitted by whiteflies and causes yellowing, curling, and stunting of tomato plants.
3. Early Blight:
Caused by the fungus Alternaria solani, early blight results in dark lesions on leaves, affecting plant health and reducing yield.
4. Late Blight:
Phytophthora infestans causes late blight, leading to dark lesions on leaves and affecting both foliage and fruit.
5. Septoria Leaf Spot:
Caused by the fungus Septoria lycopersici, this disease results in small, dark spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced yield.
6. Fusarium Wilt:
Fusarium oxysporum causes wilt in tomato plants by blocking water transport, resulting in wilting and yellowing of leaves.
Farmers over the years have developed various strategies, including crop rotation, disease-resistant varieties, and proper sanitation, to manage and prevent these diseases in tomato cultivation.
