Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program

Favorita Cherry Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme)

Jemima Kamba, Undergraduate Research Assistant

Adekunle Adeyeye, Graduate Research Assistant

Cora Teets, Research & Extension Associate

Theoneste Nzaramyimana, PhD, Assistant Professor for Urban Agriculture

MarieMerci Uwimbabazi, Graduate Research Assistant

Introduction & Background

• Favorita cherry tomatoes are a popular cherry tomato variety known for their sweet flavor, vibrant red color, and high productivity.
• They are widely favored for fresh consumption and culinary uses, such as salads and garnishes.
• They can be grown using a wide variety of production systems including organic, greenhouse, high tunnel and field production.

Key Characteristics

• Fruit Size: Small, round cherry tomatoes, approximately 2-3 cm in diameter.
• Color: Deep red when fully ripe.
• Flavor: Sweet and juicy with a well-balanced acidity.
• Texture: Firm, yet tender skin that resists cracking

Growth Habits

• Plant Type: Indeterminate (continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the season).
• Vine Length: Can grow up to 2 meters or more
• Leaf Type: Regular leaf with dense foliage.

Cultivation Requirements

• Climate: Thrives in warm, subtropical to temperate climates.
• Temperature: Optimal growth at 20-25°C (68-77°F).
• Light: Full sun exposure (6-8 hours daily).
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8.
• Watering: Consistent moisture but well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
• Fertilization: Balanced NPK fertilizer, with adjustments based on growth stage

Planting and Maintenance

• Propagation: Typically grown from seeds or seedlings.
• Spacing: 50-60 cm between plants and 80-100 cm between rows.
• Pruning: Regular pruning and removal of suckers to promote airflow and fruit development.
• Support: Requires staking or trellising due to indeterminate growth habit.