Peltomaat

Peltomaat, a Finnish term meaning field tomato, refers to tomatoes grown outdoors in open field conditions rather than in protected environments such as greenhouses. It is a description of the production setting rather than a specific tomato variety or cultivar.

In Northern temperate climates like Finland, outdoor tomato production is less common than greenhouse cultivation because of the short growing season and the risk of late frosts. When fields are used, production tends to occur in warmer, southern regions or in summers with favorable weather. Outdoor tomatoes are typically more variable in yield and appearance compared with greenhouse fruit, and the market supply is often more seasonal and locally focused.

Cultivation practices for peltomaat emphasize choosing varieties that tolerate outdoor conditions, along with soil preparation, appropriate fertilization, and irrigation. Growers may employ protective measures against late frosts, heavy rain, and pests, though such protections are not as extensive as in protected environments. Harvesting occurs when fruits reach full ripeness in the field, which can influence flavor and texture compared with greenhouse-grown tomatoes. Field fruit may exhibit more variation in size and appearance.

Market and use: peltomaat are often sold locally during the peak summer season and used for fresh consumption or simple processing. Availability is highly regional and weather-dependent. The term underscores the cultivation setting rather than a defined standard of taste, size, or quality, and it contrasts with the more controlled production common in greenhouses.