Some Responses of Glasshouse Tomatoes to Boron

Abstract

SummaryThe effects of boron, macronutrients (थ, ऩ, K and Mg) and lime on the boron status of tomato leaves and on fruit yields were assessed in a factorial trial (72 plots, split ± B) in glasshouse border soil. Lime and high levels of phosphorus and potassium all increased the incidence of boron deficiency symptoms. The boron content of the foliage was depressed by lime and high phosphate. Application of boron to limed plots receiving adequate levels of N and ऩ increased yields by 9%, significant at P<0.01.In a further trial in glasshouse soil limed to pH 7.2 and adequately supplied with other nutrients, boron increased the yield of ripe fruit by 18.3% (P<0.001), accompanied by significant improvements in shape and uniformity of ripening. Treatment with copper was also included factorially in the trial; the overall effects of copper on yield and grading were not significant, but there was some indication of interaction between the boron and copper treatments.