Cultivation of Tomatoes

Abstract

THE imposition of duties on imported tomatoes has naturally stimulated the production of this fruit in Great Britain, although the industry had already assumed large proportions. The home production under glass is estimated at more than 1,140,000 cwt., but even so, this only accounts for less than one third of the total home consumption, imports for 1932 amounting to as much as 2,442,000 cwt. Very considerable knowledge with regard to tomato growing has been obtained at the Cheshunt Research Station, and at the invitation of the Ministry of Agriculture, the director, Dr. Bewley, has prepared a bulletin on the subject which provides growers with a wealth of valuable information (Bull. No. 77, Tomatoes: Cultivation, Diseases and Pests. H.M. Stationery Office. Is. 6d. net). Soil treatment before planting, manuring, optimum soil and air temperature during growth are among the aspects of the subject discussed in detail, while recommendations as to the choice of the best variety, methods of marketing and measures to be adopted for the control of diseases and pests are also supplied. In addition, the construction and heating of glasshouses are considered, and a detailed plan of a low-pressure hot water heating apparatus is appended.