BANANA LEGS, USA. An early, compact tomato variety with a unique decorative appearance. The plants are short with many branching stems forming a dense green mass. The fruits are elongated and cylindrical, resembling miniature bananas. As they ripen, they change from green to a deep yellow with creamy stripes and a pearly sheen.

This variety is especially attractive in gardens or on balconies — the whole plant looks like a garland of bright fruit, catching the eye. It is well-suited for hanging baskets, canning, and pickling. Is a determinate (bush-type) tomato, growing up to 50–70 cm. tall. The fruits are firm and elongated, about 10 cm. in length and weigh around 80 g.

HISTORY AND CHARACTERISTICS

The variety was developed in the USA by John Swenson in 1984, using hybrid lines from the well-known tomato breeder Tom Wagner, creator of the Green Zebra tomato. Although bred in America, Banana Legs is popular worldwide and even became a parent of another famous tomato — Striped Roman.

The flesh is meaty, with few seeds. The taste is mild, fruity-sweet with low acidity — typical for yellow tomatoes. Ripening starts toward the end of July. The fruits are great for fresh use or processing, and their seeds can be saved for future growing.

HOW TO GROW BANANA LEGS

For best results, choose a warm, sheltered location — outdoors, in greenhouses, or in containers of at least 20 liters. In cooler climates, harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions 7–9 days before planting. The soil should be loose, slightly acidic, and rich in potassium, which helps the plant resist drought and disease.

When planting, bury half the stem to encourage additional root growth. Remove the lower leaves, firm the soil well, provide support, and water thoroughly. A useful tip is to form a small earth rim around the stem so water goes directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and improving absorption.