On April 29, Taiwan's Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station presented three research outcomes aimed at optimizing the mini tomato supply chain. The announcements were made at a press conference held by the Ministry of Agriculture and included the release of one new fruit variety, one new rootstock, and one integrated pest management (IPM) protocol for protected tomato cultivation.
© Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station
New mini tomato variety: Tainan No. 25
Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station Director Chen Yu-chu showed the newly released 'Tainan No. 25', a red, oblong mini tomato weighing approximately 11.5 grams per fruit. It is intended for spring cultivation between March and May, differing in production window from current mainstream cultivars in Taiwan. Data presented by the research team indicate a °Brix of 9.7 and a sugar-acid ratio of 25.4. Under cold storage, approximately 70% of the yield remains marketable after four weeks, targeting logistical performance in export scenarios.
© Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station
IPM protocol for greenhouse tomato production
The station also introduced an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy designed for protected tomato crops. The protocol is structured around three components: prevention, monitoring, and control. Specific methods include the use of yellow sticky traps, certified disease-free seedlings, predatory mirid bugs (e.g., Nesidiocoris tenuis), and banker plant systems utilizing sesame and Cleome species. Trials indicate a reduction of pest control costs by 60%, with yield increases of 20% and revenue increases above 40%.
© Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station
Tomato rootstock 'Tainan No. 1'
The new tomato rootstock variety 'Tainan No. 1' was also released. It has been trialed across Yunlin, Chiayi, and Nantou counties and is reported to show high compatibility for grafting and strong resistance to bacterial wilt. Performance under high-temperature conditions has been described as stable, based on field observations. Technology transfer agreements have been signed with Chia-Sher Seeds Co., Ltd. and Cola Seedlings, with plans for commercial rollout.
© Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station
The release forms part of a broader strategy to localize innovation and standardize production practices for growers aiming at both domestic and export markets.
For more information:
Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station
https://www.tndais.gov.tw