Tomato Cultivation: Complete Information

 

Tomato Cultivation: Complete Information

 Introduction

Tomato is a crop that is popular all over the world due to its utility and nutritional value. Tomato cultivation in India is not only important from the commercial point of view but it is also a major source of income for small and medium farmers. High quality yields can be obtained by using suitable climate, soil, and right techniques for tomato cultivation. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the aspects required for tomato cultivation, such as climate, soil preparation, seed treatment, irrigation, fertilizer, and pest management.

 

Suitable climate for tomato cultivation

The ideal temperature for tomato cultivation is 20-25 degree Celsius. This temperature is most suitable for the growth and fruiting of plants. Too much heat (above 35 degree Celsius) or too much cold (below 10 degree Celsius) can damage the tomato crop. Excessive heat can cause flowers to fall, while cold can stop the growth of plants.

- Suitable season - Tomato is cultivated in India mainly in Kharif (June-July) and Rabi (October-November) seasons. Tomato can also be cultivated in some areas in summer, provided the temperature is controlled.

Regional adaptability - Rabi season in North India and both seasons in South India are suitable for tomato cultivation.

Soil selection and preparation

Soil selection is very important for tomato cultivation. Light loamy or sandy loam soil is best for tomatoes. The pH value of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.0.

- Drainage - Select soil with good drainage, as tomato roots cannot tolerate excess water. Waterlogging increases the risk of root rot and other diseases.

- Soil fertility - The soil should have high organic matter content. Use of farmyard manure or compost increases soil fertility.

Field preparation

1. Ploughing - The field should be ploughed deeply 4-5 times so that the soil becomes friable.

2. Levelling - Prepare beds by levelling the field. The width of the bed should be 80-90 cm and the height should be 15-20 cm.

3. Organic manure - Add 20-25 tonnes of well-rotted farmyard manure to the soil per hectare. 4. Soil disinfection - Expose the soil to sunlight for 7-10 days or use solarization technique (covered with polythene).

Seed selection and treatment

Seed selection and treatment plays an important role in the success of tomato cultivation.

- Improved varieties - There are many improved tomato varieties available in India, such as Pusa Ruby, Pusa Hybrid, Arka Vikas, and NS-501. Select the variety according to the local climate and soil.

- Seed treatment - Treat the seeds with a mixture of 2 gm thiram and 1 gm carbendazim before sowing. It prevents seed borne diseases.

- Sowing depth - Sow the seeds at a depth of 4 cm. Keep the distance between the seeds 60 cm (plant to plant) and 90 cm (row to row).

- Nursery - Tomato seeds are first sown in the nursery and after 25-30 days the plants are transplanted to the main field.

 

Sowing time

- Kharif season: June-July

- Rabi season: October-November

- Summer season: January-February

 

 Irrigation and Fertilizer Management

Irrigation:

Tomato crop requires regular and balanced irrigation.

- First irrigation - Do light irrigation immediately after sowing or transplanting.

- Regular irrigation - Water at an interval of 5-7 days in summer and 10-12 days in winter.

- Drip irrigation - Using drip irrigation saves water and provides water to the plants evenly.

Fertilizer management

Use fertilizers based on soil fertility.

- Organic manure - Use cow dung manure or vermicompost.

- Chemical fertilizer - Use 120 kg nitrogen, 60 kg phosphorus, and 60 kg potassium per hectare.

- Time of fertilizer application - Apply nitrogen in three parts – first at the time of sowing, second at flowering, and third during fruit formation. 

 

 Pest and Disease Management

Many pests and diseases can affect the tomato crop. To prevent them, take the following measures:

- Pests

 - Fruit borer insect - Use neem based insecticides or pheromone traps for its prevention.

- White fly - Install yellow sticky traps and spray organic insecticides.

- Diseases

- Blight disease - Spray carbendazim or mancozeb.

- Leaf spot disease - Use copper oxychloride.

- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - Use a balanced combination of organic and chemical methods.

Harvesting and Storage

- Harvesting Time - Pick tomatoes when they turn light red or pink. Fully ripe tomatoes are not suitable for storage.

- Method of Harvesting - Pick fruits carefully so that the plant is not damaged.

- Storage - Keep tomatoes in a cool (10-15 degree Celsius) and ventilated place. Tomatoes can remain fresh for 2-3 weeks in cold storage.

Benefits of Tomato Farming

1. High Demand - Tomatoes are in demand throughout the year, giving farmers good profits.

2. Short-term harvest - Tomato crop is ready in 90-120 days.

3. Diverse Uses - Tomatoes are used as vegetables, salads, sauces, and juices.

4. Nutritional Value - Tomatoes are rich in nutrients like vitamins C, A, and lycopene.

Conclusion

Tomato farming is a profitable and sustainable agricultural business. By using the right climate, soil, and management techniques, farmers can get high-quality yields. With regular care, proper irrigation, and pest-disease management, tomato farming not only gives economic benefits, but it is also an important source of nutritious food. If you want to start tomato farming, follow the tips given in this article and consult experts.