Stem number and spacing in tomato yield and quality

Abstract

The aim this study was to evaluate tomato yield and quality under different plants density and stems number. The study was conducted at Murici farm on Ibicoara - BA under randomized block design with eight replications in 2 x 2 factorial design, with two spacings (1.4 x 0.5 and 1.4 x 0.25 m), two stems quantities per plant (one and two stems). After of harvest, we evaluated: fruits number per plant, longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, average fruit weight, plant production, yield, fruit pulp pH, ascorbic acid, titratable acidity, soluble solids, relationship solid soluble and titratable acidity, and firmness. The plant density gave smaller fruit amounts and average weight per fruit, but achieved higher yield. While the tomato produced with two stems obtained highest fruits number and lower average weight per fruit, but reached higher yield. Regarding fruit quality best results were achieved using lower density and plants with one stem. For tomato production, we recommend planting in higher density, coupled to planting with two stems. However, it will obtaining fruits with smaller size, lighter weight and lower fruit quality.