About Arka Rakshak

Arka Rakshak is a hybrid tomato variety developed by IIHR (Indian Institute of Horticultural Research). It is known for its triple disease resistance (to Tomato Leaf Curl Virus, Bacterial Wilt, and Early Blight), high yield, and excellent fruit quality. It is ideal for both commercial farming and home gardening.

How to Plant Arka Rakshak Tomato

• Seed Sowing: Sow seeds in a nursery tray or raised seedbed using fine soil or cocopeat.
• Germination Time: Seeds germinate in 5–8 days under warm conditions (25–30°C).
• Transplanting: Transplant seedlings after 25–30 days or when they are 4–6 inches tall.
• Plant Spacing: Maintain 60 cm between rows and 45 cm between plants.
• Soil Requirement: Grows best in fertile, well-drained loamy soil with pH 6.0–7.0.

Care Instructions

• Sunlight: Needs 6–8 hours of full sunlight daily.
• Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil moist, especially during flowering and fruiting stages.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer (NPK) in split doses. Supplement with compost or vermicompost.
• Mulching: Use straw or black plastic mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.
• Staking: Provide bamboo stakes or trellis to support the plants and improve air circulation.

Maintenance Tips

• Pruning: Remove suckers and lower yellow leaves to encourage better fruit set.
• Pest Control: Use neem oil or organic pesticides to control common pests like aphids and fruit borers.
• Disease Resistance: Arka Rakshak is resistant to Leaf Curl Virus, Bacterial Wilt, and Early Blight, reducing the need for chemical sprays.
• Crop Rotation: Avoid planting tomatoes in the same spot every season to prevent soil-borne diseases.

Quality and Benefits

• Fruit Quality: Large, firm, round red fruits weighing about 100–120 grams each.
• Yield: High-yielding variety, capable of producing 80–90 tons per hectare under optimal care.
• Market Value: Excellent shelf life and transportability; ideal for long-distance marketing.
• Usage: Perfect for fresh salads, cooking, and processing (sauces, puree, etc.).