Lucknow: Tomato cultivation has been flourishing across the country. The weather in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar is favourable during the winter months. Temperature between 20 and 28 °C has been considered a perfect one for the better growth of tomatoes, while 20 and 25 °C are ideal temperatures for the development of the red pigment. In fact, frost can pose danger in colder areas, and temperatures above 40 °C may drop production.
However, farmers have been asked to use loam soil, which is replete with organic matter and suitable for tomato farming. They are advised to use varieties such as Arka Saurabh, Arka Vikas, Pusa Ruby, and hybrid varieties such as Pusa Hybrid 1 and so on for bumper production. These varieties are disease-resistant as well.
300-400 grams of seeds are required for one hectare, while hybrids need 150-200 grams. September-October is an ideal time for the preparation of tomato nurseries and seeds treated with fungicides to avert fungal attacks.
The moment saplings are ready for transplanting (after 25–30 days), several fungicides like carbendazim or Trichoderma should be used before planting the seedlings at a spacing of 75 cm between rows and 60 cm between plants.
Experts say that marigolds should be planted around the field for the protection of tomatoes from pests. Add 20–25 tonnes of decomposed manure along with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash fertilizers for huge production.
Plucking of fruits should start when tomatoes start turning light red; after that, separate the damaged or small fruits. The average production of tomatoes is around 400-500 quintals per hectare, while the yield of hybrids is about 700-800 quintals.
