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Verticillium dahliae (Vd) and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol) are two major fungal pathogens that infect tomato plants, causing significant challenges in their control since both pathogens can persist in the soil for several years even in the absence of a host plant and no effective fungicides are available at present. This study investigated the efficacy of two biocontrol formulations, Clonotri (containing Trichoderma and Clonostachys microorganisms) and Strepse (comprising Streptomyces and Pseudomonas microorganisms), against Vd and Fol and their impact on tomato fruit quality and yield under greenhouse conditions. The pathogenicity experiment demonstrated that the Clonotri formulation, containing Trichoderma and Clonostachys spores, significantly reduced Fusarium wilt disease by 32% compared to the control group. However, in the Vd pathogenicity experiment, the formulations did not exhibit disease reduction, although treatment with Strepse, containing Streptomyces and Pseudomonas microorganisms, resulted in a preserved total fruit number when compared to uninfected plants. Analysis of fruit quality attributes revealed no significant differences among the various interventions. Furthermore, Fol infection in the first fruit set significantly increased fruit firmness, while Vd infection resulted in elevated levels of total soluble solids in fruits. These findings demonstrate that the evaluated biocontrol formulations provide a degree of protection against fungal wilt pathogens in tomato plants and can increase yield in greenhouse conditions while having minimal impact on overall fruit quality attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An open-field experiment was conducted in Cabuyao, Laguna, Philippines to investigate the effects of combining chemical fertilizers, vermicompost, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Azospirillum spp.) on the growth, nutrient uptake, and yield of tomato plants. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design replicated four times. The treatments include the recommended rate of chemical fertilizer (RRC) and three integrated nutrient management (INM) strategies. The results revealed that AMF inoculation significantly increased the uptake of P, K, Ca, and Mg while INM 3 recorded the highest N uptake. Treatments with vermicompost application recorded a significantly higher uptake of Cu. INM 1, INM 2, and INM 3 gave a significantly higher fruit yield than the RRC with an increase of 8%, 13%, and 14%, respectively. The percentage of mycorrhizal root colonization and number of rhizosphere spores were higher in mycorrhizal plants. Fruit yield and AMF root colonization were positively correlated with the uptake of several nutrients. INM strategies obtained a higher net income than the current fertilizer recommendation by 4–15%. These findings imply that the INM strategies can increase tomato productivity, reduce the amount of chemical fertilizer inputs, increase profitability, and potentially lead to soil health and environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at investigating the effects of two irrigation regimes (full and deficit irrigation), combined with four different fertilizer rates on fruit yield, irrigation water and fertilizer use efficiency of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), grown in unheated greenhouse under mulched drip irrigation and fertigation. For two consecutive years (2019–2020), experiments were conducted on the experimental field in Chelopechene of ISSAPP „Nikola Pushkarov“, in Sofia, Bulgaria. Two irrigation rates (100% and 60% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc)), under four fertilizer rates (unfertilized, 80% NPK, 100% NPK, 120% NPK), have been served as a treatment. The results showed that greater fruit yields were obtained in fully irrigated treatments. Application of the highest fertilizer rate (120% NPK) results in highest average total yield, both in fully irrigated (104.37 t ha-1) and deficit irrigation (78.02 t ha-1) treatments. Irrigation water use efficiency was higher under deficit irrigation and its maximum value (34.87 kg m-3 for 2020 ) was obtained with the highest fertilser rate trough fertigation. The highest nitrogen use efficiency (672.14 kg kg-1) was obtained in the fully irrigated treatment with the highest fertilizer rate. The experimental results obtained in both years indicated that drip fertigation technology with appropriately selected levels of irrigation and fertilization could improve fruit yield and water and nutrient use efficiency of greenhouse tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Saffron spice owes its commercial appreciation to its specific apocarotenoids: crocins, picrocrocin, and safranal. In Crocus sativus, these compounds are biosynthesized from zeaxanthin through oxidative cleavage by the carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 2 (CCD2). Transgenic tomato plants expressing CsCCD2 in the fruit, named Tomaffron, accumulate high levels of saffron apocarotenoids despite the low substrate availability for CsCCD2. In the present study, CsCCD2 has been introduced into Xantomato; this tomato variety accumulates high levels of zeaxanthin and β‐carotene in ripe fruit due to a combination of four mutant alleles. Xantomato and Tomaffron genotypes have been combined to optimize apocarotenoid production. The best transgenic lines accumulated 15 and 14 times more crocins and picrocrocin than Tomaffron, alongside a fourfold increase in β‐carotene compared to Xantomato, albeit at a cost in fruit yield. Segregation of the four mutations has been carried out to find the best combination for obtaining high levels of saffron apocarotenoids without adverse effects on fruit yield. Plants harboring the high‐pigmented 3 (hp3) and BETA (BSh) mutations accumulated 6 and 15 times more crocins and picrocrocin than Tomaffron, without observable pleiotropic effects. Additionally, those high levels of saffron apocarotenoids were obtained in fruit accumulating high levels of both lycopene and β‐carotene independently or in combination, suggesting a regulatory role for the apocarotenoids produced and indicating that it is possible to increase the levels of both types of healthy promoting molecules simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: High annual tomato yields are achieved using high-tech greenhouse production systems. Large greenhouses typically rely only on one central weather station per compartment to steer their internal climate, ignoring possible microclimate conditions within the greenhouse itself. Methods: In this study, we analysed spatial variation in temperature and vapour pressure deficit in a commercial tomato greenhouse setting for three consecutive years. Multiple sensors were placed within the crop canopy, which revealed microclimate gradients. Results and discussion: Different microclimates were present throughout the year, with seasonal (spring - summer - autumn) and diurnal (day - night) variations in temperature (up to 3 °C, daily average) and vapour pressure deficit (up to 0.6 kPa, daily average). The microclimate effects influenced in part the variation in plant and fruit growth rate and fruit yield - maximum recorded difference between two locations with different microclimates was 0.4 cm d-1 for stem growth rate, 0.6 g d-1 for fruit growth rate, 80 g for truss mass at harvest. The local microclimate effect on plant growth was always larger than the bulk climate variation measured by a central sensor, as commonly done in commercial greenhouses. Quality attributes of harvested tomato fruit did not show a significant difference between different microclimate conditions. In conclusion, we showed that even small, naturally occurring, differences in local environment conditions within a greenhouse may influence the rate of plant and fruit growth. These findings could encourage the sector to deploy larger sensor networks for optimal greenhouse climate control. A sensor grid covering the whole area of the greenhouse is a necessity for climate control strategies to mitigate suboptimal conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the effects of different irrigation water quality and silicon doses on leaf soil plant analysis development meter readings, chlorophyll content and carotenoid contents of tomato plants. Tybiff Aq tomato seedlings were grown in 3-liter pots filled with 1100 g of 1:1 peatperlite mixture for 70 days. Four different types of irrigation water quality were prepared with the use of sea and tap water. Irrigation waters included i) Full seawater, ii) ½ seawater + ½ tap water, iii) ¼ seawater + ¾ tap water, iv) full tap water (control). Each irrigation water was supplemented with silica gel (SiO2.x H2O) at 0, 0.5, 1 and 2 mM Si doses. Nutrient solutions were supplied to meet macro and micronutrient requirements of tomato plants. Leaf chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and total chlorophyll contents significantly increased with increasing tap water ratios of the irrigation water. Significant increases were observed in chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and total chlorophyll contents with increasing silicon doses. Such increases achieved with silicon treatments were more remarkable for chlorophyll-a and total chlorophyll contents. Leaf chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and total chlorophyll contents significantly decreased with increasing leaf sodium, chlorine and magnesium contents, but significantly increased with increasing leaf active iron and potassium contents. Leaf chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and total chlorophyll contents increased with increasing leaf calcium contents, but such increases were not significant. Leaf carotenoid contents significantly increased with increasing tap water ratios of the irrigation water. Effects of silicon doses on leaf carotenoid contents varied with the type of irrigation water. The 0.5 mM silicon supplementation into tap water significantly increased carotenoid contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective: Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the most important economic and widely used crops in horticulture. It is a self-fertilizing and diploid plant and has 24 pairs of chromosomes (2n=2x=24). The life cycle of this plant is one year, and it is cultivated in greenhouses and fields. There are many varieties of tomatoes that differ from each other in terms of plant growth, quality, fruit shape, and other traits. Tomato fruit has a high nutritional value, consisting of minerals, vitamins, fibers, citric acid, β-Carotene and ascorbic acid. Diversity and selection are the two main pillars of any reformation program, and choosing is based on the existence of desirable diversity in the reformation materials under discussion. To produce varieties of tomatoes with high productivity, quality and resistance, breeders need evaluation of genetic diversity, identification and introduction of new genotypes. In other words, systematic study and evaluation of germplasm is of great importance for current and future agronomic and genetic improvement of the crop. Different methods are used to estimate genetic diversity and group genotypes, and the evaluation of morphological and physiological characteristics can be considered as the first step in the investigation of genetic diversity. Different genotypes of tomato differ in terms of morphological and physiological traits, and fruit yield is influenced by some of these traits. Therefore, the selection of criteria other than fruit yield, which have more stability than fruit yield, can be considered as a selection guide in the selection of desirable cultivars. Accordingly, this study was conducted with the aim of investigating the genetic diversity and grouping of tomato genotypes (53 genotypes) based on morphological and physiological traits. Material and Methods: In the present study, 53 genotypes of tomato plants were investigated using a randomized complete block design with three replications under greenhouse conditions at the Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. After disinfecting and planting the seeds in the pot, sampling of the seedlings was performed. Morphological traits such as plant height, stem diameter, fresh and dry weight of the plant, number of side branches, number of leaves, root length, fresh and dry weight of the organ air, fresh and dry weight of roots, fruit number, fruit yield, and physiological traits including proline content, photosynthetic pigments (including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid), and total phenolic and flavonoid compounds were measured. Furthermore, the obtained data were subjected to variance analysis, mean comparison, correlation coefficient, factor analysis, and cluster analysis using suitable software. Results: After analyzing the data, the results of the evaluation of variance showed that the difference of the studied genotypes in terms of all traits except proline trait was significant at the probability level of 1%. Estimation of the correlation coefficients between the studied traits showed a significant correlation between most of the studied traits and fruit yield. Further, the results of the investigation into factors showed that 6 factors explained more than 77% of the total variance, so that the contribution of the first to sixth factors was 24, 18, 14, 9, 7, and 6% of the total changes, respectively. For better interpretation, larger factor coefficients for each factor were considered significant. Because the largest factor coefficients among the coefficients of each factor indicate the attribute or attribute that plays the greatest role in those factors, the factors were named accordingly. In this way, the first factor was named the fruit yield factor, the second the photosynthesis factor, the third the phenolic factor, the fourth the root weight factor, the fifth the proline factor, and the sixth the stem diameter factor. Based on the results of the cluster analysis, it was observed that the genotypes were significantly different in terms of the measured morphological and physiological traits and they were placed in 3 different groups, each of which had 30, 19, and 4 genotypes, respectively, and the genotypes in the group Third, in terms of studied traits, they were better to other groups. Conclusion: In general, based on the analysis, the genotypes were significantly different in terms of the measured traits. This article shows that there is a suitable diversity among the studied genotypes and it is possible to select based on these characteristics among the studied genotypes and the selection can be effective in their improvement programs. By estimating the phenotypic correlation coefficients, it was found that the fruit yield trait had the most positive and significant correlation with the number of fruits and the amount of photosynthetic pigments. Therefore, these traits can be considered in tomato fruit yield genetic improvement programs. Considering that the average of most of the traits studied for the genotypes belonging to the third cluster (13, 15, 45 and 46) was higher than the total average and the said genotypes were excellent in terms of developmental and physiological parameters compared with other genotypes, the top genotypes identified in this research can be considered and used in future breeding studies in this valuable plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) is a widely cultivated vegetable crop worldwide, including in Fiji. However, the suitability of tomato cultivation under greenhouse conditions in the central region of Fiji, which experiences salinity issues, remains unclear. Methods: A pot experiment was conducted at the Instructional Agricultural Farm Complex of the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Fiji National University, Fiji, to determine the effect of different levels of salinity on the growth and yield of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) varieties. The experiment included two factors: three tomato varieties (V1= Melrose; V2= Alton; V3= Alafua Large) and four levels of NaCl salinity (T1= Control; T2= 2 dSm-1; T3= 4 dSm-1 and T4= 8 dSm-1) randomized thrice in a randomized complete block design. The effects of various varieties and salinity levels on tomato yield were studied in this experiment. Result: The results revealed that variety Alafua Large performed comparatively better in all cases. This recorded maximum fruit length (4.22 cm), fruit breadth (3.31 cm), individual fruit weight (45.60 g), number of fruits (7.83) and fruit yield (352.10 g) whereas Alton recorded the minimum of the above yield attributes. In the case of the combined effect of variety and salinity, Alafua Large showed better yield (432.17 g and 394.51 g) per plant than the other varieties when combined with the lower salinity level i.e., EC 2 dSm-1 and 4 dSm-1, respectively. The yield of tomato varieties declined with the increasing salinity level condition. The yield of Alafua Large was 194.54 g when applied with the highest level of salinity i.e., EC 8 dSm-1 and the yield of Alton was 64.69 g which was the lowest yield among the varieties with the highest level of salinity condition. Therefore, from the results, Alafua Large is comparatively more salt tolerant than the other varieties which were studied in this experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nitrogen plays a crucial role in growth cycling and development, thereby influencing the plant growth and productivity. Understanding the interactions between nitrogen uptake with different irrigation regimes and source of nitrogen fertilizers could provide a valuable insight for optimizing tomato production. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effect of nitrogen uptake on tomato production under different nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation regimes. Methods: The field experiment was carried out during 2022-2023 in split plot design with two irrigation main plots treatments and five different nitrogen fertilizer subplot treatments. Irrigation treatments consisted of 0.8 and 1.0 IW/CPE ratio and the nitrogen fertilizer treatments comprised of conventional urea, neem coated urea, ammonium sulfate, nano-urea and vermicompost. Result: A higher nitrogen uptake was observed in the treatment combination of 0.8 and 1.0 IW/CPE ratio with vermicompost and nano-urea fertilizer applied treatments. Additionally, optimal irrigation conditions positively influenced nitrogen uptake and subsequent tomato fruit yield. This finding emphasizes the importance of considering nitrogen uptake when determining nitrogen fertilizer rates and irrigation management strategies for tomato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic vegetable production is needed worldwide to minimize the use of inorganic fertilizers, protect the environment, and produce healthy food. Accordingly, in the present study, the effects of organic granules on the productivity, quality, and nutrient uptake level of tomatoes and the fertility and microbial population of the soil were determined. Briefly, organic NPK granules and organic N, P and K-rich sources were compared with synthetic NPK granules and synthetic fertilizers administered at 100 and 75% of the recommended fertilizer levels. Among the various treatments applied, treatment with 100% of the recommended NPK using the synthetic NPK granules (Urea, DAP and MOP) led to higher growth, yield attributes, and yield (fruit yield, - 24.21 t/ha and stover yield, -15.01 t/ha) of tomato. This treatment also enhanced the nutrient uptake by tomato. However, quality parameters, such as total soluble solids (6.64%), titrable acidity (0.62%), ascorbic acid content (14.31 mg/100 g), lycopene content (3.54 mg/100 g), reducing sugars (3.11%), non-reducing sugars (1.02%), total sugar (4.13%), and shelf life (15.76 days) of tomato were higher with 100% of the recommended NPK from organic NPK granules than from synthetic granules. This treatment also enhanced the available nutrients and microbial population in the soil. Notably, the same trend was observed for tomatoes fertilized with 75 % of the recommended NPK. The lowest values were obtained with the absolute control. Based on the results of this experiment, the application of 100% of the recommended NPK using organic NPK granules is the best approach to improve the quality of tomato fruits and to enhance the soil fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial diseases are a major cause of yield loss in tomato plants worldwide, and there is a need to identify strategies for control of these diseases. Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum (RS) and bacterial spot caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv vesicatoria (Xav) are amongst the bacterial diseases affecting tomato crops. The current study investigates Euphorbia hirta (E. hirta) methanol extract (EHM) for its antibacterial activity against RS, and Xav induced diseases in tomato plants, along with its biostimulant potential in increasing fruit yield. EHM at 1280 mg/L exhibited 90% inhibition in the growth of both RS and Xav bacteria. Further, evaluation of EHM on Arka Vikas, a susceptible tomato variety, showed that pre-treatment of 15 days and 45 days tomato plants with 1280 mg/L EHM exhibited moderate resistance to bacterial wilt and spot disease, respectively, with increased tomato yield and improved chlorophyll b levels compared to control plants. The effectiveness of EHM in increasing fruit yield was further confirmed using field evaluation on 'Namdhari NS 538' variety of tomato plants. A 3.5-fold increase in numbers and weight of tomato was observed with foliar application of EHM (1280 mg/L). A significant reduction in fruit spoilage along with an increase in mRNA level of ethylene receptor factor (ERF1) was also observed. The study is the first to demonstrate the cost-effective and eco-friendly antibacterial and biostimulant potential of EHM (1280 mg/L) for tomato plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin (Mel) is a multifunctional signaling molecule, quantified in a wide range of higher plants. It acts as a pleiotropic molecule and is involved in numerous signaling and physiological processes, particularly under harsh environmental conditions in plants. In the present study, the defensive role of Mel was explored in salt (NaCl)-stressed tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants. Mel (50 or 100 µM) was supplied to the foliage of tomato plants at 30 days after transplantation (DAT), grown without stress, and in the presence of NaCl (100 or 150 mM) stress. Salt stress negatively affected photosynthetic efficiency, cell viability, plant growth, fruit quality, and impaired root morphology, and stomatal physiology, but induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species ((H2O2 and O2·−), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and electrolyte leakage. Interestingly, foliar supplementation of Mel to stressed and non-stressed plants lowered MDA levels, reduced oxidative stress and promoted photosynthesis, improved cell viability, stomatal behavior, and plant growth, and boosted the activity of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and elevated proline content which bestowed endurance and reduced the salt-induced oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity has necessitated the adoption of water-saving techniques in both protected and non-protected farming. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a water-saving soilless cultivation technique and compare it to conventional soil-based cultivation in protected farming. The soilless technique utilized local gravel and a mixture of peat moss, humin-substrate, and perlite in a 4:3:1.5 ratio. During the tomato growth cycle, three irrigation regimes were imposed using drip irrigation: 8 Lh−1 design discharge (D1) emitters, 6 Lh−1 design discharge (D0.75) emitters, and 4 Lh−1 design discharge (D0.5) emitters for both cultivation methods. Vegetative growth, fruit yield, and water consumption were measured and water productivity was determined. Additionally, an economic assessment was conducted by estimating and comparing economic coefficients for both cultivation methods. Estimated coefficients included revenues, net profit, benefit–cost ratio, breakeven levels of production and prices, revenues over variable cost, and revenues on investment. The tomato fruit yield under soil-based cultivation surpassed the yield under soilless cultivation. Water productivity under soilless cultivation was nearly double (24.3 kg m−3) that of soil-based cultivation (15.5 kg m−3). Soilless cultivation saved 50% of the irrigation water applied by the conventional soil-based method, conserving energy and protecting the soil from deterioration. Revenues and net profits, driven by higher yield and lower variable costs, favored soil-based cultivation. The economic assessment demonstrated that both cultivation methods were economically viable. However, the soil-based cultivation method was more profitable due to its higher fruit yield. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the soilless cultivation technique is a feasible option for water-saving cultivation. However, the soil-based cultivation method remains more profitable due to its superior fruit yield. The soilless cultivation technique offers significant water savings but needs further improvements to achieve comparable economic returns to traditional farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CONSTANS (CO) and CONSTANS-LIKE (COL) transcription factors have been known to regulate a series of cellular processes including the transition from the vegetative growth to flower development in plants. However, their role in regulating fruit yield in tomato is poorly understood. Result: In this study, the tomato ortholog of Arabidopsis CONSTANS, SlCOL1, was shown to play key roles in the control of flower development and fruit yield. Suppression of SlCOL1 expression in tomato was found to lead to promotion of flower and fruit development, resulting in increased tomato fruit yield. On the contrary, overexpression of SlCOL1 disturbed flower and fruit development, and significantly reduced tomato fruit yield. Genetic and biochemical evidence indicated that SlCOL1 controls inflorescence development by directly binding to the promoter region of tomato inflorescence-associated gene SINGLE-FLOWER TRUSS (SFT) and negatively regulating its expression. Additionally, we found that SlCOL1 can also negatively regulate fruit size in tomato. Conclusions: Tomato SlCOL1 binds to the promoter of the SFT gene, down-regulates its expression, and plays a key role in reducing the fruit size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The absence of an externally-imposed 24 h light/dark cycle in closed plant production systems allows setting the light environmental parameters in unconventional ways. Innovative lighting modes for energy-saving, high-quality, and yield production are widely discussed. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the light/dark cycles of 16/8 h (control) and 24/12 h, 48/24 h, 96/48 h, 120/60 h (unconventional cycles) based on the same total light amount, and continuous lighting (360/0 h) on plant performance of some Solanaceae species. Responses of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.), sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.), and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants to extended light/dark cycles and continuous lighting were studied under controlled climate conditions. Plants with two true leaves were exposed to different light/dark cycles for 15 days. Light intensity was 250 µmol m−2 s−1 PPFD, provided by light-emitting diodes (LEDs). After the experiment, tomato, sweet pepper, and eggplant transplants were planted in a greenhouse and grown under identical conditions of natural photoperiod for the estimation of the after-effect of light treatments on fruit yield. Extended light/dark cycles of 24/12 h, 48/24 h, 96/48 h, 120/60 h, and 360/0 h affected growth, development, photosynthetic pigment content, anthocyanin and flavonoid content, and redox state of plants. Effects varied with plant species and length of light/dark cycles. In some cases, measured parameters improved with increasing light/dark periods despite the same total sum of illumination received by plants. Treatments of tomato and pepper transplants with 48/24 h, 96/48 h, and 120/60 h resulted in higher fruit yield compared to conventional 16/8 h photoperiod. The conclusion was made that extended light/dark cycles can result in increased light use efficiency compared to conventional photoperiod and, therefore, reduced product cost, but for practical application, the effects need to be further explored for individual plant species or even cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential macronutrient nitrogen (N) is crucial for plant growth and yield, but excessive chemical N fertilizer not only increases unnecessary production costs but also causes environmental pollution. Therefore, reducing N fertilizer use by increasing organic fertilizer use is crucial for sustainable agriculture. In this study, we investigated the effects of three nitrogen levels—the recommended rate (N), a 20.0% reduced rate (0.8N), and a 40.0% reduced rate (0.6N)—and two levels of organic fertilizer—a normal dose (M) and a four-times the normal dose (4M)—combined with root application of the beneficial element silicon (Si) on the photosynthetic characteristics, yield, and fruit quality of the tomato cultivar 'Tianxi No. 5'. Compared with M + N treatment, the longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, fruit weight, and fruit yield of tomato fruit in 4M + 0.6N treatment significantly increased by 12.4%, 14.6%, 14.5%, and 12.8%, respectively, while the yield was further improved with Si application. In addition, a reduction in N fertilizer and an increase in organic fertilizer, combined with Si application, improved fruit quality parameters such as concentrations of vitamin C, lycopene, phenols, flavonoids, sucrose, fructose, etc., and promoted sugar metabolism-related enzyme activity (sucrose synthase, invertase, and sucrose phosphate synthase) and the accumulation of N in the fruit. The principal component analysis and three-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the fruit quality and yield indices showed that nitrogen fertilizer, organic fertilizer, silicon fertilizer, and the interaction of the three had significant effects on the quality and yield of tomato fruits, and that the 4M + 0.6N + Si treatment had the best combined effect on the yield and quality of the tomatoes. Thus, a moderate reduction in chemical N fertilizer, combined with increased organic fertilizer and Si, could be an effective agronomic practice for improving the yield and quality of tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is high value crop, also called as protective food due to its high nutritional and biochemical compounds. Correlation and path analysis was carried out for 147 tomato recombinant inbred line population. Correlation studies suggested that the association of fruit yield per plant was positive and significant with plant height (0.595), branches per plant (0.657), fruits per cluster (0.500), clusters per plant (0.717), average fruit weight (0.244) and fruits per plant (0.891). Path analysis revealed that among eleven characters studied only two characters viz., average fruit weight (0.415) and fruits per plant (0.817) showed very high positive and direct effect on yield per plant. This study helps to understand the mutual relationship among various traits thereby assist in selecting the character contributing to the yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At a time when growers have to increase food production, while facing many environmental challenges, biostimulants and plant defence stimulators (PDS) may help reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and to promote agriculture that is more respectful of the environment. For organic farming, they may contribute to increasing plant resilience and crop productivity. Several studies have shown that plant-derived protein hydrolysates may increase nutrient use efficiency and promote plant resistance to abiotic or biotic stresses. We therefore hypothesized that soy protein hydrolysates increase tomato growth and productivity, while promoting plant disease resistance. Our results showed that one or two drench applications of soy protein hydrolysates (SPH13 and SPH18 at 10 g L−1) to the growing medium increased tomato ('Micro Tom') plant growth and fruit production, while one studied hydrolysate enriched in glycine (SPH18) increased the expression levels of PR1 and PR8, two defence-related genes. Although no significant effect was observed on Botrytis cinerea resistance of Micro Tom plants, SPHs significantly increased 'M82' plant resistance to foliar inoculation with Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000, which further confirmed the systemic activation of plant defence mechanisms by SPHs in tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Grafting is widely used as an important agronomic approach to deal with environmental stresses. However, the molecular mechanism of grafted tomato scions in response to biotic stress and growth regulation has yet to be fully understood. Results: This study investigated the resistance and growth performance of tomato scions grafted onto various rootstocks. A scion from a gray leaf spot-susceptible tomato cultivar was grafted onto tomato, eggplant, and pepper rootstocks, creating three grafting combinations: one self-grafting of tomato/tomato (TT), and two interspecific graftings, namely tomato/eggplant (TE) and tomato/pepper (TP). The study utilized transcriptome and DNA methylome analyses to explore the regulatory mechanisms behind the resistance and growth traits in the interspecific graftings. Results indicated that interspecific grafting significantly enhanced resistance to gray leaf spot and improved fruit quality, though fruit yield was decreased compared to self-grafting. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that, compared to self-grafting, interspecific graftings triggered stronger wounding response and endogenous immune pathways, while restricting genes related to cell cycle pathways, especially in the TP grafting. Methylome data revealed that the TP grafting had more hypermethylated regions at CHG (H = A, C, or T) and CHH sites than the TT grafting. Furthermore, the TP grafting exhibited increased methylation levels in cell cycle related genes, such as DNA primase and ligase, while several genes related to defense kinases showed decreased methylation levels. Notably, several kinase transcripts were also confirmed among the rootstock-specific mobile transcripts. Conclusions: The study concludes that interspecific grafting alters gene methylation patterns, thereby activating defense responses and inhibiting the cell cycle in tomato scions. This mechanism is crucial in enhancing resistance to gray leaf spot and reducing growth in grafted tomato scions. These findings offer new insights into the genetic and epigenetic contributions to agronomic trait improvements through interspecific grafting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress is one of the most critical environmental abiotic stresses that can negatively affect plant growth. This article investigates the role of a plant growth promoter (Benzylaminopurine) in tomato fields in regard to its ability to withstand high-temperature conditions resulting from greenhouse gas emissions and climate changes. Three genetically different tomato cultivars (Castlerock, GS 12-F1, and Fayrouz F1) were sprayed with 2% 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) at 300 and 600 ppm; then, growth and yield components, physio-biochemical characteristics, and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined. The results showed that the highest BAP concentration (600 ppm) enhanced the ability of tomato plants to withstand high temperatures and the maximum dose of BAP improved chlorophyll (71.7 spad units) in GS 12 leaves, while the same dose enhanced proline contents (24.91 mg/100 g FW), total antioxidants (83.35 µmol Trolox/g dw), total phenolics (20.99 mg/g dw), Superoxide dismutase (33.74 U/g), peroxidase (46.30 U/g), and polyphenol oxidase (64.10 U/g) in Fayrouz F1 leaves. Application BAP on tomatoes moderately improved fruit quality, such as ascorbic acid and maturity degree, while BAP applications reduced TSS and acidity. In this investigation, taste index was not affected by Benzylaminopurine application but by tomato genotype. The highest number of fruits/plant (45.7), fruit yield/plant (3.98 kg), and total yield (103 tons/ha) were obtained from the GS 12 genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrids show better performance than varieties in terms of yield and quality. Heterosis breeding provides a way to develop hybrids to uplift yield and quality. In the current study, 21 hybrids generated through line × tester mating design were evaluated along with the standard check, Arka Rakshak, in a randomized block design to investigate the magnitude of standard heterosis. Significant difference was observed among the genotypes pertaining to days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), fruits per plant, fruit weight (g), fruit girth (cm) and seeds per fruit. Estimation of standard heterosis in desirable direction was identified for all characters. NTL-14-08 × DVRT-2, NTL-14-08 × GT-6 and NTL-14- 08 × GT-7 are the top three crosses that showed higher positive standard heterosis for fruit yield per plant (kg). The heterotic response in hybrids for different characters is in general agreement with the per se performance of hybrids. Phenotypic correlation study indicated that the number of fruits per plant is positively correlated with fruit yield per plant and negatively correlated with days to 50% flowering with significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of different locally available organic wastes like briquettes, biochar, paddy, and maize straw in combination with coco peat used as standard soilless growing media, for growing tomato under poly nethouse. The experiment layout was completely randomized design with three replications comprising of eleven treatments viz. 100% cocopeat (T1), 25% paddy straw + 75% cocopeat (T2), 50% paddy straw + 50% cocopeat (T3), 75% paddy straw + 25% cocopeat (T4), 100% straw (T5), 50% briquette + 50% cocopeat (T6), 100% briquettes (T7), 25% biochar + 75% cocopeat (T8), 50% biochar + 50% cocopeat (T9), 75% biochar + 25% cocopeat (T10), and 100% biochar (T11) during first season. During second year, treatments were modified to 25% briquette + 75% cocopeat (T7), 25% maize straw + 25% paddy straw + 50% cocopeat (T8), 25% maize straw + 50% paddy straw + 25% cocopeat (T9), 50% maize straw + 50% cocopeat (T10), 100% maize straw (T11), and 100% soil (T12). The results revealed that maximum fruit yield per plant recorded in the treatment T1 (100% cocopeat) was significantly higher as compared to all other treatments during the first year of study. However, during the second year, it was statistically at par with T6 and T7 but significantly higher as compared to other treatments. When 25 to 50% substitution of cocopeat was done with paddy straw briquettes or 25% paddy straw + 75% cocopeat was used, the quality parameters were comparable to 100% cococpeat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of the climate changes that are getting worse nowadays, drought stress (DS) is a major obstacle during crop life stages, which ultimately reduces tomato crop yields. So, there is a need to adopt modern approaches like a novel nutrient- and antioxidant-based formulation (NABF) for boosting tomato crop productivity. NABF consists of antioxidants (i.e., citric acid, salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, glutathione, and EDTA) and nutrients making it a fruitful growth stimulator against environmental stressors. As a first report, this study was scheduled to investigate the foliar application of NABF on growth and production traits, physio-biochemical attributes, water use efficiency (WUE), and nutritional, hormonal, and antioxidative status of tomato plants cultivated under full watering (100% of ETc) and DS (80 or 60% of ETc). Stressed tomato plants treated with NABF had higher DS tolerance through improved traits of photosynthetic efficiency, leaf integrity, various nutrients (i.e., copper, zinc, manganese, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen), and hormonal contents. These positives were a result of lower levels of oxidative stress biomarkers as a result of enhanced osmoprotectants (soluble sugars, proline, and soluble protein), and non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant activities. Growth, yield, and fruit quality traits, as well as WUE, were improved. Full watering with application of 2.5 g NABF L−1 collected 121 t tomato fruits per hectare as the best treatment. Under moderate DS (80% of ETc), NABF application increased fruit yield by 10.3%, while, under severe DS (40% of ETc), the same fruit yield was obtained compared to full irrigation without NABF. Therefore, the application of 60% ETc × NABF was explored to not only give a similar yield with higher quality compared to 100% ETc without NABF as well as increase WUE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important biotic stress factor impacting tomato crop biophysical, biochemical, physiological, and morphological features is water stress. A pot experiment was undertaken in a greenhouse to study the drought responsiveness of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) yield and quality indices in sandy loam and silty loam soils. For both sandy loam and silty loam soils, the water supply levels were 70–100% FC, 60–70% FC, 50–60% FC, and 40–50% FC of ETo (crop evapotranspiration) from the vegetative stage to the fruit ripening stage, calculated using the Hargreaves–Samani (HS) model compared to the time-domain reflectometer (TDR) values calibrated using volumetric water content (VWC). The experiment was conducted as a 2 × 4 factorial experiment, arranged in a completely randomized block design, with four treatments replicated four times. In this study, we examined how sandy loam and silty loam soils at different % FC affect the total marketable yield and quality components of tomatoes, concentrating on total soluble solids (Brix), fruit firmness, dry fruit mass, pH, titratable acid (TA), ascorbic acid (Vit. C), and carotenoid composition. Lycopene and β-Carotene were estimated using the UV spectroscopy method, with absorption spectra bands centered at 451 nm, 472 nm, 485 nm, and 502 nm. The results revealed that even though there were some limitations, TDR-based soil moisture content values had a strong positive correlation with HS-based evapotranspiration, with R2 = 0.8, indicating an improvement whereby TDR can solely be used to estimate soil water content. Tomato plants subjected to 40–50% FC (ETo) water stress in both sandy loam and silty loam soils recorded the highest total soluble solids, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid content, and β-carotene content at an absorption peak of 482 nm, and lycopene content at an absorption peak of 472 nm, with lower fruit firmness, fruit juice content, and fruit juice pH, and a reduced marketable yield. Similarly, tomato plants subjected to 60–70% FC throughout the growing season achieved good fruit firmness, percent juice content, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid content, and chlorophyll content (SPAD), with minimum fruit juice pH and high marketable yield in both soil textural types. It is concluded that subjecting tomato plants to 60–70% FC (ETo) has a constructive impact on the marketable yield quality indices of tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing saline water productivity in arid regions is essential for sustainable agriculture. Adding biochar can improve the quantity and quality of tomato yield under higher levels of salinity and lower levels of irrigation. The experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of biochar on enhancing tomato fruit quality and yield under salinity and drought stress. The experiment combines two treatments for irrigation water quality (0.9 and 2.3 dS m−1), four irrigation levels (40, 60, 80, and 100%) of crop evapotranspiration (ETc), and the addition of 5% of biochar to treated soil (BC5%) and untreated soil (BC0%). The results showed that the decrease in the water quality and irrigation levels negatively impacted the yield and properties of tomato fruit, while 5% of biochar application positively improved the yield. Adding biochar decreased the tomato yield by 29.33% and 42.51% under lower-saline-irrigation water than the control, negatively affecting the fruit's physical parameters and mineral content. In contrast, adding biochar and irrigating with saline water at 60% of ETc improved the firmness and quality characteristics of the fruit by 56.60%, 67.19, 99.75, and 73.57% for vitamin C (VC), total titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), and total sugars (TS), respectively, compared to the control, and also reduced the sodium content of the fruits under all irrigation levels compared to untreated plants by biochar. Generally, biochar with saline water under deficit irrigation with 80 and 60% of ETc could be an excellent strategy to enhance the qualitative characteristics of tomato fruits and save approximately 20–40% of the applied water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of water deficit severity and the specific growth stages at which water stress is applied have been found to have significant implications for both tomato yield and fruit quality. Recent findings have highlighted the influence of water deficits during the reproductive phase on tomato fruit quality. This study aimed to assess the effects of deficit irrigation on tomato fruit quality and overall plant productivity. Cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) were grown in a greenhouse from August to November 2022. Three distinct watering regimes were implemented: Daily watering (T1), watering every 3 days (T2) and watering every 7 days (T3), starting from the flowering stage and continuing through subsequent plant development stages. The mean soil metric potentials (SMP) were -4.9, -29.7 and -52.8 kPa for T1, T2 and T3, respectively. Various traits of fruit size, fruit biomass, total soluble solids (TSS), water content, glucose content and lycopene content were measured. Additionally, the overall plant biomass and root-to-shoot ratio were evaluated. The results revealed that traits of the fruit size, such as diameter, length, volume and fresh weight, were most favorable when plants were subjected to the T2 watering regime, while higher and lower watering frequencies led to smaller fruit sizes. Interestingly, the TSS concentration had the most pronounced response to drought stress, indicating increased fruit sweetness. However, the fruit water content, glucose content and lycopene content remained unaffected by the different watering regimes. Furthermore, plants subjected to the T3 with the minimum SMP at -196.4 kPa exhibited enhanced development of the root system, prioritizing resource acquisition such as water and mineral nutrients over shoot components. In conclusion, this study provided valuable insights for agricultural practitioners, offering a range of alternatives that can inform optimal irrigation strategies that effectively enhance the quality of cherry tomato yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of plant biostimulants has gained importance as a strategy by which to improve plant productivity and soil health. Two independent trials were conducted across two seasons (2021 and 2023) to evaluate the effects of foliar or soil applications of various commercial organo-mineral fertilizers (Futuroot®, Radicon® Amifort®) with biostimulant action that is exerted on yield and fruit characteristics of processing tomato crops (cv Taylor F1) that have been exposed to mineral macronutrients. These treatments were administered three times during the season: at the transplanting, pre-flowering and berry development stages. In the first trial, conducted in two fields characterized respectively by low and high fertility, foliar applications of Radicon®, which is based on humic acid and amino acids, increased the leaf greenness index SPAD compared with the control. Furthermore, the leaf green colour intensity (SPAD index), measured during the reproductive phases of the tomato exhibited a positive correlation (R2 = 0.726) with the marketable yield obtained. This increase in marketable yield was significant in the biostimulant treatment compared with the control in both soils, especially in the soil characterized by lower fertility (16.1%), when compared with the more fertile soil (6.8%). In the second trial, conducted in the low-fertility field mentioned above, soil applications of all biostimulants (Futuroot®, Radicon® and the combinations [Radicon® + Amifort-Plus®]) significantly increased the marketable yield by 27.8%, 13.5% and 27.7%, respectively, compared with the control. The most significant beneficial effects of both Futuroot® and [Radicon® + Amifort®] could be attributed to the combination of humic acids and auxins, cytokinins or microelements (Zn, Mn, MgO) present in the formulation of these products. Furthermore, the increase in marketable yield obtained when Radicon® was applied to leaves was higher (16.1%) than that observed with soil application (13.5%). In both trials, no relevant effects of biostimulant products were observed on most of the physicochemical characteristics of tomato fruits. In conclusion, the biostimulants based on humic acid and amino acids combined with chemical fertilizers tested in the present study and applied by fertigation were more effective in improving tomato yield, and therefore they can be recommended for efficient agricultural production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted at PAU Regional Research Station, Bathinda during 2017-18 to investigate the effect of quality of irrigation water and fertigation levels on the growth, yield, N content and uptake in tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) under polyhouse conditions. The treatments included two irrigation water qualities viz. canal water (CW) and desalinated water (DSW) and three fertigation levels viz. 100%(F1), 80%(F2) and 60%(F3) of recommended NPK. Both the water qualities CW and DSW produced statistically similar dry matter production and total fruit yield of tomato. Increasing fertigation level from 60% of recommended NPK dose (F3) to 100% (F1) significantly increased the total dry matter and fruit yield of tomato at successive growth stages {120 days after transplanting (DAT), 150 DAT, 180 DAT and at maturity}. The N content of different partitioned plant parts viz. leaves, stem and roots decreased with each successive growth stage, irrespective of water quality and fertigation levels. Water quality had no significant effect on the N content and uptake of leaves, stem and roots at successive growth stages. The fertigation level (F1) recorded significantly higher content and accumulation of N in leaves, stem and roots compared to F2 and F3 at all growth stages. The absorption of N by tomato leaves increased with increasing plant age up to 150 DAT whereas the total N accumulation tended to decline at 180 DAT and maturity at all the fertigation rates in both the water qualities. Unlike tomato leaves, the total N assimilation in stem and roots continued to increase at successive stages of tomato growth up to maturity. The N content in fruits produced with both water qualities was also statistically similar but the fertigation levels had a significant effect on the N content of fruits at 7th picking and final harvest. Fertigation had a significant effect on soil available nitrogen content of soil. It is concluded that desalinated water proved to be as good a source to that of canal water for production of tomato with 100% recommended NPK fertigation levels under protected cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Recursos Rurais is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Servicio de Publicaciones and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Fruit set is the process by which the ovary develops into a fruit and is an important factor in determining fruit yield. Fruit set is induced by two hormones, auxin and gibberellin, and the activation of their signaling pathways, partly by suppressing various negative regulators. Many studies have investigated the structural changes and gene networks in the ovary during fruit set, revealing the cytological and molecular mechanisms. In tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), SlIAA9 and SlDELLA/PROCERA act as auxin and gibberellin signaling repressors, respectively, and are important regulators of the activity of transcription factors and downstream gene expression involved in fruit set. Upon pollination, SlIAA9 and SlDELLA are degraded, which subsequently activates downstream cascades and mainly contributes to active cell division and cell elongation, respectively, in ovaries during fruit setting. According to current knowledge, the gibberellin pathway functions as the most downstream signal in fruit set induction, and therefore its role in fruit set has been extensively explored. Furthermore, multi-omics analysis has revealed the detailed dynamics of gene expression and metabolites downstream of gibberellins, highlighting the rapid activation of central carbon metabolism. This review will outline the relevant mechanisms at the molecular and metabolic levels during fruit set, particularly focusing on tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

S -Nitrosoglutathione plays a central role in nitric oxide (NO) homeostasis, and S -nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) regulates the cellular levels of S -nitrosoglutathione across kingdoms. Here, we investigated the role of endogenous NO in shaping shoot architecture and controlling fruit set and growth in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). SlGSNOR silencing promoted shoot side branching and led to reduced fruit size, negatively impacting fruit yield. Greatly intensified in slgsnor knockout plants, these phenotypical changes were virtually unaffected by SlGSNOR overexpression. Silencing or knocking out of SlGSNOR intensified protein tyrosine nitration and S -nitrosation and led to aberrant auxin production and signaling in leaf primordia and fruit-setting ovaries, besides restricting the shoot basipetal polar auxin transport stream. SlGSNOR deficiency triggered extensive transcriptional reprogramming at early fruit development, reducing pericarp cell proliferation due to restrictions on auxin, gibberellin, and cytokinin production and signaling. Abnormal chloroplast development and carbon metabolism were also detected in early-developing NO-overaccumulating fruits, possibly limiting energy supply and building blocks for fruit growth. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms by which endogenous NO fine-tunes the delicate hormonal network controlling shoot architecture, fruit set, and post-anthesis fruit development, emphasizing the relevance of NO–auxin interaction for plant development and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Belgrade is the property of University of Belgrade, Faculty of Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Bacterial Endophytes are known for their novel functionality and offer more benefits by interacting with the host in variable environmental conditions. The diversified role of endophytes is being studied in order to enhance their use in the agriculture production system. Considering the enormous potential use of endophytic bacteria a research programme has been framed to study the effect of potential endophytic bacteria on the growth and yield of tomato. In the present study, an attempt was made to isolate 48 endophytic bacteria from the root, stem, and leaves of chilli and tomato crops which are collected from north eastern zones of Karnataka. These isolates were characterized and identified up to the genus level based on morphological and biochemical properties. Most of the endophytic bacterial isolates showed plant growth-promoting (PGP) activity like nitrogenfixing ability, phosphate solubilizing activity, production of indole acetic acid (IAA) and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC). Based on the performance of endophytic bacteria under the pot culture experiment, the three most efficient isolates (ESK-26, ESR-6, and ESK-32) were selected and screened under field conditions. Treatment with a consortium of bacterial endophytes resulted in significant enhancement of plant height, number of branches, total dry weight, number of fruits per plant, and fruit yield per plant of tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salicylic acid and Benzoic acids are antitranpirants usually used to reduce the rate of moisture loss and increase productivity of irrigated crops. To test antitranspiracy of Salicylic and Benzoic acids, field experiments were conducted during the two successive dry Seasons of 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 at the Agricultural Research Station Farm, Kadawa (11°38'40.3"N, 8°25'53.9"E) 498 m elevation above sea level. The aim was to study the effects of antitranspirants and moisture stress on crop growth and development stages of tomato. The treatments consisted of two antitranspirants at four different concentrations of 0, 200, 400 and 600 ppm, and three moisture stress stages, vegetative, flowering and fruit setting. Antitranspirants and moisture stresses were assigned to the main plot and concentrations were used as sub--plot treatment. These were replicated three times and laid out in a split-plot design. The gross plot size was 3.6m x 3.0m (10.8m²) consisting of 6 rows of 3m length, while the net plot size was 1.2m x 1.8m (2.16 m²) consisting of 2 inner most rows. Data were taken on tomato growth and yield attributes. Data generated were analysed using statistical analytics software (SAS). The results of the study revealed that application of both Antitranspirants enhanced growth and yield components such as fruit diameter, number of fruits plant1, average fruit weight, marketable fruit yield and total fruit yield of tomato. Significant interactions between and among the factors were also recorded for fruit diameter, number of fruits plant1, marketable fruit yield and the total fruit yield. Application of200 and 400ppm of antitranspirant had higher fruit weight, number of marketable fruits and higher total fruit yield. Imposing stress at vegetative stage had higher total fruit yield than other stages. Similarly, 600 ppm of Benzoic acid at flowering had higher number of marketable fruits (16.37 t ha-1) while the control (3.18 t ha-1) had the least in 2012. Applying 400 ppm of Salicylic acid at fruit setting produced the highest total fruit yield (6.66 tha-1) which was statistically similar to 600ppm of Benzoic (6.101 ha-1) at flowering while the control had the lowest. Total fruit yield was positively and significantly correlated with number of fruit plant1 and average fruit weight. Number of fruits plant1 was found to have the highest direct contribution to the yield. Flowering and fruiting stages were found to be the critical growth stages for moisture stress of tomato. Foliar application of400ppm of Salicylic acid at fruit setting stage appeared to promote tomato yield in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Faculty of Agriculture / Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Journal of the Faculty of Agriculture / Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Nowadays one of the main challenges in agriculture is to increase crop yield and quality in a sustainable way. Organic farming system (OFS) is considered more eco-friendly than the conventional farming system (CFS). However, cash crops showed a reduced yield when cultivated in OFS, and among them processing tomato reported the highest yield gap between OFS and CFS. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate, both in greenhouse and field experiments, the combined effects of a cherry rootstock, genotype 'Tomito', and the applications of different microbial biostimulants (single species and consortia). The agronomic performance of a commercial processing tomato genotype, 'H3402', was assessed in order to increase fruit yield and quality in sustainable farming systems. In greenhouse experiment, the use of 'Tomito' as rootstock highlighted both the highest plant height (35 cm) and leaf chlorophyll content (25.20), while plants inoculated with A. brasiliensis showed the highest number of flowers (4.5). In field experiment, the combined use of grafting and microbial biostimulants increased marketable (on average 2.3 kg plant-1) and total yields (on average 2.5 kg plant-1) in comparison with the genotype 'H3402'. All the investigated treatments reduced the number of fruits affected by blossom-end rot (on average -4.7 fruits plant-1), and A. brasiliensis also improved the fruit solid soluble content, recording values of 6.23 ºBrix and 3.54 of Brix t ha-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a set of twenty-five genotypes of tomato (PLRT-1 to PLRT-25) along with Punjab Ratta (check) were evaluated for biochemical constituents viz. lycopene, carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, acidity, tomatine and yield per plant. Lycopene content and carotene content varied between 2.40 to 8.06 mg 100 g-1 FW and the carotene content ranged from 1.63 to 7.25 mg 100 g-1 FW. The variety, PLRT-8 recorded significantly higher vitamin C content (29.72 mg 100 ml-1 FW) while genotype PLRT- 11 recorded the maximum acidity (0.80 mg 100 ml-1 FW). The vitamin A and tomatine content ranged from 0.81-2.71 mg 100 g-1 FW and 14.11-53.02 mg 100 g-1 DW, respectively. The highest yield (2.61 kg per plant) was observed in PLRT-10. Pearson correlation analysis (2-tailed) performed gave a total of 11 significant correlations at 5% and 1% level of significance. Correlation data even indicated that yield per plant was not correlated with any biochemical trait. Overall, this information will be useful to develop breeding programs aiming to improve combination of important traits in new tomato cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annals of Agricultural Science Moshtohor is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Annals of Agricultural Science Moshtohor is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The experiment was conducted under sub-tropical condition during two successive seasons (November-March) of 2017-18 and 2018-19 to investigate the effect of defoliations on morpho-physiological attributes and yield of tomato. The experiment comprised of five levels of defoliation viz., 0 (control), 3, 6, 9 and 12 leaves defoliation from the base out of 17 leaves at the beginning of flowering stage and two widely cultivated varieties viz., TM-110 and TM-135. The plant characters such as leaf area, plant height, number of leaves plant-1, straw weight plant-1, absolute growth rate, number of fruits plant-1, individual fruit weight and fruit yield were not affected up to 6 leaves defoliation irrespective of seasons and genotypes. Interestingly, photosynthesis, nitrate reductase and reproductive efficiency increased with increasing defoliation levels. Morpho-physiological parameters and yield attributes were better in 3 and 6 leaves defoliated plants over the control with being the highest in 6 leaves defoliated plant, which resulting the highest fruit yield. Heavy defoliation not only reduced source sizes but also decreased total sink (fruits) causing lower fruit yields. The lowest morpho-physiological attributes and fruit yield was recorded in 12 leaves defoliated plants. These results indicate that tomato plants can tolerate one-third leaf loss during reproductive stage and the knowledge of which might be essential for maintaining better quality tomato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit locule number is an important agronomic trait that affects fruit appearance, quality, and yield. CLAVATA3 (SlCLV3) is a candidate gene of the fasciated (fas) locus that plays a role in controlling the number of flower organs and fruit locules in tomato. The SlCLV3 encoding signal peptide mainly acts by inhibiting the expression of WUSCHEL (WUS) but there is little research about how the receptor transmits the CLV3 signal to WUS and inhibits its expression. The CRISPR/Cas9 method was employed to edit the first exon of tomato SlCLV3 in this study, leading to the functional deletion of SlCLV3. As a result, flowers with a high number of organs and fruits with a high number of locules were produced. We screened six candidate genes using the transcriptome of clv3 mutants, analyzed expression variations in these genes between the cultivated allele and wild-type allele of fas, and showed that only SlLET6 and SlGIF1 (GRF1-interacting factor 1) were influenced by the fas locus. SlLET6 overexpression resulted in an increase in flower carpels and fruit locules. These results suggest that SlLET6 may be the downstream gene of SlCLV3 regulating the number of carpels and fruit locules in tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study was aimed to examine the effects of growth media (GM) consisted of peat and different domestic materials on nutrition, growth and yield of tomato as alternative to cocopeat in Turkiye. For this, cocopeat(GM1), perlite(GM2), leonardite(GM3), vermicompost(GM4), and peat(GM5) were used as substrates. Each substrate was used as a control in itself, and a total of 17 combinations were tried by keeping the peat constant and mixing in 1:1, 1:2, 1:4 (V/V) ratios. The mixtures were filled in 7-liter pots where seedlings were planted, irrigated with water for the first week, and then irrigated with nutrient solution. The research was established as a 4-replications pot experiment and the Solanum lycopersicum cv.Vitello tomato variety was used as the plant material. The nutrient solution was applied with a drip irrigation. The volume of the applied nutrient solution was adjusted manually to obtain 10-30% leaching ratio. In general, vermicompost and its mixtures with peat were the most effective growth media on leaf and fruit nutrient concentrations. The highest fruit yields were obtained from plants grown in solely peat and 1:1 peat + vermicompost medium. Similarly, the highest biomass weight was recorded from the plants grown under 1:1 peat + vermicompost mixture. In addition to this findings, it was observed that some peat-containing mixtures were also found to be competitive with widely used media in terms of the other parameters studied. As a result, it was seen that most of the peat containing GM especially peat + vermicompost mixtures, can be used in soilless tomato cultivation as alternative to cocopeat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was carried out at B.B.A. University, Lucknow (UP), India during rabi season of 2017-18 and 2018-19 to study the performance of tomato genotypes for growth and yield. The twenty genotypes were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. Among the genotypes Pusa Sadabahar proved superior for growth and yield contributing characters i.e. plant height (30.9), number of branches per plant (7.0), number of cluster per plant (20.4), number of flower per cluster (9.8), number of fruits per cluster (5.0), number of fruits per plant (18.3), average fruit weight (53.0 g), fruit yield per plant (974.8 g), fruit yield (15.1 kg/plot) and fruit yield (36.1 tha-1) respectively, followed by Selection -7. On the other hand, minimum values of these parameters were recorded in Toleu-32, took plant height (25.1), number of branches per plant (4.5), number of cluster per plant (5.4), number of flower per cluster (5.6), number of fruits per cluster (3.1), number of fruits per plant (13.1), average fruit weight (41.9 g), fruit yield per plant (550.8 g), fruit yield (8.8 kg/plot) and fruit yield (20.4 t ha-1) consequently. The genotype Toleu-32 was significantly superior for days to 50 % flowering (41.9). The accession H-86 was found to be superior for TSS (5.4 0Brix). The check variety VRT-50 was found to be superior for vitamin C (27.7mg) followed by TLCV-16. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is a rich-carbon charcoal obtained by pyrolysis of biomasses, which was used since antiquity as soil amendant. Its storage in soils was demonstrated contributing to abate the effects of climate changes by sequestering carbon, also providing bioenergy, and improving soil characteristics and crop yields. Despite interest in this amendant, there is still poor information on its effects on soil fertility and plant growth. Considerable variation in the plant response has been reported, depending on biomass source, pyrolysis conditions, crop species, and cultivation practices. Due to these conflicting evidences, this work was aimed at studying the effects of biochar from pyrolyzed wood at 550°C, containing 81.1% carbon and 0.91% nitrogen, on growth and yield of tomato plants experiencing low-input farming conditions. San Marzano ecotype from Southern Italy was investigated, due to its renowned quality and adaptability to sustainable farming practices. Biochar administration improved vegetative growth and berry yield, while affecting gene expression and protein repertoire in berries. Different enzymes of carbon metabolism and photosynthesis were over-represented, whereas various stress-responsive and defense proteins were down-represented. Molecular results are here discussed in relation to estimated agronomic parameters to provide a rationale justifying the growth-promoting effect of this soil amendant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Global warming and extreme or adverse events induced by climatic fluctuations are an important threat for plants growth and agricultural production. Adaptability to environmental changes prevalently derives from a large set of genetic traits affecting physiological and agronomic parameters. Therefore, the identification of genotypes that are good yield performer at high temperatures is becoming increasingly necessary for future breeding programs. Here, we analyzed the performances of different tomato landraces grown under elevated temperatures in terms of yield and nutritional quality of the fruit. Finally, we evaluated the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities of fruit extracts from the tomato landraces selected. RESULTS: The tomato landraces analyzed here in a hot climate differed in terms of yield performance, physicochemical parameters of fruit (pH, titratable acidity, degrees Brix, firmness), bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and polyphenols), and anti‐inflammatory potential. Three of these landraces (named E30, E94, and PDVIT) showed higher fruit quality and nutritional value. An estimated evaluation index allowed identification of PDVIT as the best performer in terms of yield and fruit quality under high temperatures. CONCLUSION: The analyses performed here highlight the possibility to identify new landraces that can combine good yield performances and fruit nutritional quality at high temperatures, information that is useful for future breeding programs. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single-truss production system for tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a relatively new developed cultivation technology that guarantees high yields and high-quality fruit throughout the annual cycle. In this study, we examined the impact of electrical conductivity (EC) of nutrient solutions on the growth, yield, and fruit quality of tomatoes grown in a single-truss system in a hydroponic culture. Plants were supplied with nutrient solution at the following EC values: 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.4 mS·cm−1 in the spring and summer cycles, and at 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 mS·cm−1 in the winter cycle. In the spring cycle, the EC of the nutrient solution increased in all treatments, particularly after pinching the main stem. Increased EC values of nutrient solutions were also recorded at the 1.2 and 1.4 EC in the summer cycle and the 1.4 and 1.6 EC in the winter cycle. The leaf number per plant did not differ between treatments in all production cycles. The largest leaf area was found at the 1.2 and 1.4 EC in the spring cycle and the 1.0 and 1.2 EC during the summer. During the winter cycle, no differences in leaf area between treatments were observed. In spring, plants at the 1.2 and 1.4 EC had the highest yields and largest fruits, while during the summer, plants at the 1.0 and 1.2 EC produced the most fruit. In winter, the highest yield was found at the 1.4 EC. The soluble solids concentration (SSC) of fruit was increased at the 1.4 EC both in the spring and summer cycles, while in the winter cycle, there was no difference between the treatments. Only fruit at the 1.4 EC in the summer cycle had an increased acidity. The findings indicate that under greenhouse conditions, tomato cultivation in a single-truss system can be successful if the plants are supplied with a nutrient solution at an EC value of 1.2–1.4 mS·cm−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Greenhouse tomato growers face the challenge of balancing fruit size and chemical quality traits. This study focused on elucidating the interplay between plant branching and light management on these traits, while maintaining consistent shoot density. Methods: Weevaluatedone- and two-shoot plants under varying top light intensities using high-pressure sodium lamps and light-emitting diode (LED) inter-lighting. Results: The reduced yield in the two-shoot plants was mainly due to smaller fruit size, but not due to source strength limitations, as evaluated through leaf weight ratio (LWR), chlorophyll index, specific leaf area (SLA), leaf drymatter percentage, and stem soluble carbohydrate accumulation. Enhanced lighting improved fruit weight and various fruit traits, such as dry matter content, total soluble carbohydrate content, and phenolic content, for both one- and two-shoot plant types. Despite lower mean fruit weight, two-shoot plants exhibited higher values for chemical fruit quality traits, indicating that the fruit growth of two-shoot plants is not limited by the available carbohydrates (source strength), but by the fruit sink strength. Diurnal analysis of fruit growth showed that two-shoot plants had reduced expansion during light transitions. This drop in fruit expansion was not related to changes in root pressure (measured as xylem sap exudation from decapitated plants), but might be related to diminished xylem area in the stem joint of the two-shoot plants. The concentration of several hormones, including cytokinins, was lower in two-shoot plants, suggesting a reduced fruit sink capacity. Discussion: The predominant impact of branching to two-shoot plants on sink capacity suggests that the fruit growth is not limited by available carbohydrates (source strength). Alongside the observation that light supplementation and branching exert independent additive effects on fruit size and chemical traits, this illuminates the potential to independently regulate these aspects in greenhouse tomato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Greenhouse tomato growers face the challenge of balancing fruit size and chemical quality traits. This study focused on elucidating the interplay between plant branching and light management on these traits, while maintaining consistent shoot density. Methods: Weevaluatedone- and two-shoot plants under varying top light intensities using high-pressure sodium lamps and light-emitting diode (LED) inter-lighting. Results: The reduced yield in the two-shoot plants was mainly due to smaller fruit size, but not due to source strength limitations, as evaluated through leaf weight ratio (LWR), chlorophyll index, specific leaf area (SLA), leaf drymatter percentage, and stem soluble carbohydrate accumulation. Enhanced lighting improved fruit weight and various fruit traits, such as dry matter content, total soluble carbohydrate content, and phenolic content, for both one- and two-shoot plant types. Despite lower mean fruit weight, two-shoot plants exhibited higher values for chemical fruit quality traits, indicating that the fruit growth of two-shoot plants is not limited by the available carbohydrates (source strength), but by the fruit sink strength. Diurnal analysis of fruit growth showed that two-shoot plants had reduced expansion during light transitions. This drop in fruit expansion was not related to changes in root pressure (measured as xylem sap exudation from decapitated plants), but might be related to diminished xylem area in the stem joint of the two-shoot plants. The concentration of several hormones, including cytokinins, was lower in two-shoot plants, suggesting a reduced fruit sink capacity. Discussion: The predominant impact of branching to two-shoot plants on sink capacity suggests that the fruit growth is not limited by available carbohydrates (source strength). Alongside the observation that light supplementation and branching exert independent additive effects on fruit size and chemical traits, this illuminates the potential to independently regulate these aspects in greenhouse tomato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted comprising of four widely divergent genetic materials of tomato viz. BCT- 111 rin possessing specific mutant genes and CLN B, Patharkutchi, BCT-53 are normal lines without possessing specific genes in Central Research Farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India during autumn-winter (2018‒19 to 2019‒20) aimed to evaluate genotype level variation due to rin gene in both homozygous and heterozygous condition for different characters. Three hybrids viz. BCT-111 rin×CLN B, BCT-111 rin×Patharkuchi, BCT-111 rin×BCT-53 were developed involving BCT-111 rin and normal 3 genotypes. The seven genotypes including the parental lines and hybrids exhibited wide range of variations in different traits namely, plant height (84.59‒106.94 cm), number of days to first flowering after transplanting (25.7‒41.26), number of flower clusters plant-1 (18.21‒25.69), number of flowers cluster-1 (5.73‒8.48), number of fruits plant-1 (49.22‒76.02), fruit weight (37.89‒97.50 g), equatorial diameter (24.71‒52.60 mm), polar diameter (26.00‒47.81 mm), locule number fruit-1 (2.48‒3.96), pericarp thickness (4.94‒6.84), fruit yield plant-1 (2.93‒4.07 kg), total soluble solids (3.95‒6.21° brix), total sugar content (1.43‒3.47%), reducing sugar (1.21%‒2.58%), titratable acidity (0.36%‒0.64%), ascorbic acid content (25.66‒34.76 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight), lycopene content (0.38‒4.16 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight) and β-carotene (0.24‒0.60 µg 100 g-1 fresh weight). In the genotype possessing the ripening inhibitor rin gene in homozygous condition, fruit did not ripe and lycopene biosynthesis was severely reduced. However, in heterozygous condition, lycopene biosynthesis was almost normal which amply justified the possibility of utilizing the genotype possessing ripening inhibitor rin gene for development of commercial hybrids of tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]