How to get high yields from tomatoes

Since December, there has been an increased demand for tomatoes in the country due to their shortage. This is due to low production that has been triggered by climate change. Tomato farmers experience low yields sometimes which can be controlled if the plants are taken care of. To get high yields you must provide the plants with the best care, adequate pest control and ideal conditions. 

Here are a few steps that can help you get high yields from tomatoes

Planting in greenhouses

If planted in greenhouses, you will be able to control all the weather conditions required by the plants for better returns and its easy to control pest and diseases in a greenhouse than open fields.

A greenhouse will protect plants against broken stems and torn leaves that provide a foothold for pathogens.

Check the plant variety as some perform well if grown around shaded areas and others are drought resistant. A soil test is required they require a soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.8 pH value.

Watering

The plants require consistent moisture to grow healthy. This varies depending on the variety and soil type. Tomatoes with drooping leaves require more water and plants on clay soils can be easily waterlogged hence farmers should water after it has drained all waters. Avoid splashing water on the leaves as it may lead to diseases.

Mulching

Mulching around the plants will help retain moisture in the soil. It will also save you time, water and energy. It controls the temperature of the soil during cold and warm seasons thus reducing plants stress. Mulching will also prevent backsplash of the soil pathogens on the plant leaves when it rains.

Fertilise

Mix the soil with 8-32-16 or 6-24-24 NPK fertiliser. Don’t apply any fertiliser until the plants start to shoot. Use manure sparingly as it is rich in nitrogen which may lead to excess foliage without tomatoes.

Different varieties may need a third fertiliser application.

Pest control

Frequent visits to the farm can help you notice any pest and disease infestation. Hornworms can be contained by plucking them from the plants.

Aphids can be controlled by applying a heavy stream of water that will wash them away. While doing this you should be aware of diseases caused by constant applications of water on tomato leaves. Pesticides used on control of aphids on vegetables can be still used.

Lastly, it is important to provide daily care to your plants as it helps you notice any nutrient deficiency or pest and disease infestations. Remove suckers to grow large tomatoes or leave them to get more tomatoes. Suckers are branches that grow between the branch and the plant’s stem.


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