Optimizing nutrition for tomatoes enhances economic returns to growers
Nutrient deficiencies and excess can reduce tomato crop productivity, harvest quality and economic return. Mississippi State University Extension researchers evaluated nitrogen application rates in field tomato production in north Mississippi during the summer seasons of 2023 and 2024. They collected soil, water, leaf, fruit, stem and harvest samples, then processed and analyzed them.
Based on the field studies, they determined the critical nitrogen requirement for field tomato production. The scientists presented their findings to growers at Extension events statewide and developed a Vegetable Short Course to provide science-based nutrient management recommendations for commercial vegetable production in Mississippi.
By following their nutrient-management recommendations, commercial growers in Mississippi could increase their tomato yields by up to 20% and reduce soilborne disease by up to 70%.
They have shared the fertilizer recommendations with more than 500 tomato growers statewide.
Optimizing the nitrogen application rate is anticipated to improve economic returns to growers by increasing tomato crop yield and reducing fertilizer cost. This will enhance the growers’ profit and improve their competitiveness at the regional market level. It also reduces the potential for environmental contamination associated with excessive nitrogen applications to crop fields.
View the full statement on the NIDB.
Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) funds.
