Abstract
Less or no fertilizer use compromises growth and yield of cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. Cerasiforme) in Uganda. A study was conducted to determine the effect of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) fertilizer rates on cherry tomato growth and yield. The experiment was conducted in a field during 2016B and 2017A seasons at Namulonge. The treatments included; (100, 60, 100) and (200, 60, 200) kg ha-1 of N, P, K and the control with no fertilizer application, these were laid out in a split plot design with three replications. Results revealed that tomato plants significantly (P < 0.05) responded to nitrogen and potassium fertilizer application by increasing their height and yield. The highest tomato height and yield were obtained from plots applied with 100, 60, 100 kg ha-1 of N, P and K. This rate was considered as the optimal application rate because plants applied with fertilizer above this rate were observed to have low height and yield. On the other hand, plants applied with nitrogen and potassium fertilizers below 100, 60, 100 kg ha-1, flowered and matured earlier than those in the control plots. The study showed that N and K fertilizer influenced plant height, flowering, maturity period and yield of cherry tomato. Based on these findings, use of 100, 60, 100 kg ha-1 of N, P and K is recommended for improving cherry tomato production in central Uganda, where the study was conducted, and any fertilizer rate above 100, 60, 100 kg ha-1 in the same area may be un-economical to use in cherry tomato growing.
Highlights
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is considered among the most important vegetable crop consumed globally (Arujo et al, 2016)
Statistical analysis showed that plant height varied significantly (P < 0.05) between seasons, tomato accessions and fertilizer rates
Plant height measured during season 2017A was much higher (30.5 cm) compared to height recorded in season 2016B (19.8 cm)
Summary
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is considered among the most important vegetable crop consumed globally (Arujo et al, 2016). Cerasiforme) is small type, attractive with tasty fruits compared to fresh market tomato. It can be consumed in several ways: fresh in salads and sandwiches, cooked, or processed in ketchup, sauces, juices or dried powder. The crop is a good source of income for smallholder farmers especially women who sell the fresh fruits in markets within their locality (YAP, 2016). Because of the economic and nutritional value of cherry tomato, increasing its production and productivity with good yield and high quality is a major goal for farmers whose aim is to market and sell beyond local markets like supermarkets, regional and international markets. Cherry tomatoes have a premium price on the market compared to the fresh market tomato
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