On Monday, 24 June, the first Fine Fleur soil tomatoes of the new season were sold by REO Veiling. “The Fine Fleur soil tomato season starts at the beginning of summer on 21 June every year. Soil tomatoes are proper seasonal products. Depending on the weather, the season normally lasts until late September / early October,” says Rik Decadt of REO Veiling.
“Because of the sunny weather and summer temperatures, the Fine Fleur soil tomatoes have very good quality. Demand and supply are currently well-balanced. Because of the summery weather throughout Western Europe, demand for tomatoes is increasing considerably, particularly compared to the month of May. A month ago, there was an oversupply of tomatoes, because February had been exceptionally sunny. Additionally, demand fell a bit behind because of the gloomy weather,” Rik continues.
“Because soil tomatoes are grown traditionally, they have a more intense flavour than tomatoes grown on substrate. However, the production of soil tomatoes is slower, resulting in fewer vines on the plant. The Fine Fleur soil tomatoes are picked when they’re redder than other tomatoes, they have a firm texture and good flavour,” Rik explains.
Soil tomatoes are produced using a cheaper production method than producing on substrate. “No plastic soil film or substrate mats are needed for the production. This also results in less production waste, and it’s more environmentally friendly than substrate production. Besides, the production of outdoor tomatoes is also suitable for organic production, and the soil has a cooling effect in greenhouses during hot summer days,” Rik concludes.
For more information:
Rik Decadt
REO Veiling
Oostnieuwkerksesteenweg 101
8800 Roeselare, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0)51 231 211
info@reo.be
www.reo-veiling.be