Effects of Irrigation Management on the Growth and Fruit Yield of Tomato under Drip Fertigation

Abstract

Effects of the amount of irrigation water and its frequency on the yield and growth of tomato (Lycopercicon esculentum Mill) plants under drip fertigation were examined. Treatments consisted of three levels of dripping water quantities (50, 250 and 1,250 mL) combined with two levels of the amount of nutrient application (standard, half dose of the standard). In the 50 mL-irrigated treatment, where plants were irrigated more frequently than in other treatments, more frequent irrigation with reduced amounts of water was most effective for growth and yield of tomato regardless of the nutrient level. Under this treatment, a region with a higher moisture content was formed near soil surface and NO₃⁻ concentration in the petiole sap was enhanced. Such factors may have led to stimulation of water uptake and efficient supply of nutrients.