Field growth and yield of tomato transplants grown in the float system using low phosphorus fertilizer and height restricting cultural practices

Abstract

The float system is an efficient method of seedling production. This system requires use of cultural practices to prevent excessive stem elongation of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) seedlings. It is not known how these practices affect field growth and subsequent fruit yield and quality. Experiments were conducted in 2001 and 2002 to determine if restricting P supply, delaying fertilizer application, brushing, clipping, and ethephon application affect field performance of transplants. Transplants subjected to these cultural treatments in the float system were compared to transplants conventionally grown in the greenhouse. In 2001, there was little difference in field performance among transplants produced under the range of cultural conditions. Although differences in total fruit numbers or yields were nonsignificant in 2002, conventionally grown transplants produced higher early yields. Seedlings grown with low P fertilizer and receiving delayed fertilization or delayed fertilization plus brushing performed best of all float treatments in 2002. Ethephon application severely reduced early yield while increasing late-season yield. Production of tomato seedlings with low P in float systems is feasible, at least on a small scale for transplanting locally, when delayed fertilization or delayed fertilization plus brushing treatments are used to control seedling height.