Effect of N Source on Photosynthesis and Plant Dry Matter Yield of Tomato

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine if winter legume or grain cover could support net photosynthesis (Pn) and plant dry matter production comparable to recommended rate of synthetic N. The following winter/spring fertility treatments were applied: 1) 0 N winter/0 N spring, 2) 0 N winter/90 kg·ha–1 N spring, 3) 0 N winter/180 kg·ha–1 N spring, 4) 0 N winter+abruzi rye/0 N spring, 5) 0 N winter+hairy vetch/0 N spring, and 6) 0 N winter+crimson clover/0 N spring. `Mountain Pride' tomato was planted in all plots in spring. Plant dry weight and Pn were measured at flowering, fruiting and prior to senescence. The highest Pn (22.78 μmol CO2/m2 per s) and leaf dry weight (115.2 g/plant) were obtained at fruiting, while highest branch dry weight (194.5 g/plant) occurred prior to senescence. There was significant increase in plant dry weight during reproductive growth phase. Tomato plants receiving supplemental N from crimson clover or hairy vetch had Pn and plant dry weight comparable to those receiving synthetic N. The results of this study indicated that legume cover crops were as effective as commercial N fertilizer for supporting photosynthesis and vegetative growth of tomato.