Studies on the effects of different mulches on the growth and cultivation of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum MILL.)

Abstract

The best use of mulch covers constituting of a petroleum derivative, black polythene 200 gauge film, and sugar cane trash was investigated during the cultivation of a tomato crop. The optimum vegetative growth and the highest yield were observed in the petroleum mulch. Black polythene mulch, on the other hand, was found to be the best with regard to early yield. The differences in vegetative growth and yield among the mulches were due to the different retaining capacities of available soil moisture.