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Tomato

Tomatoes

The tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum) is a flowering plant of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which carries an edible berry commonly known as tomato. The tomato fruits are a major dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene, linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. The fruits are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate and vitamin K.  In 2020, 42 million tons of processed tomatoes were consumed globally.

 

Their consumption is expected to grow further, at a rate of 3.8% (2021-2026), to attain 51 million tons in 2026. The global tomato processing market is aided by the increased production of tomatoes globally.  Tomato plants are generally branched and spread 60–180 cm (without trellising) when fruiting. Leaves are hairy, strongly odorous, pinnately compound and grow up to 45 cm long. The five-petaled flowers are yellow, 2 cm in diameter and clustered. They are red, scarlet, or yellow, though there are green and purple varieties. The shape can vary from spherical to oval and elongated to pear-shaped.

 

Tomato plants are widely grown in greenhouses, aswell as outdoors under relatively warm weather conditions with lots of sunlight. Tomato plants are sensitive to frost. Low temperatures can terminate the entire field if the temperature drops to approx. 0°C. It is highly recommended to grow the open field tomatoes in the suitable climate (or season) where temperatures do not fall below 10°C at night.      

Lettuce
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Farmers Pain Points

Soil: Though tomatoes are relatively tolerant to high EC, it is important to control EC in the root zone.
 

Climate: High humidity conditions may be challenging for high yield and optional solutions should be considered before planting. Tomatoes are very sensitive to frost.
 

Varieties: Today there are many possible varieties and rootstock available. It is important to choose the right variety ( and rootstock if needed) in order to achieve maximum yield.
 

Pests’ control: If not taken care of in time (or using preventing techniques) pests can advance very fast in the plot and destroy the plants.
 

Pollination: Bad pollination will reduce the yield dramatically. Pollinating methods must suit the growing conditions.
 

Water: Plants are sensitive to water stress and recovering time (if at all) may cause yield loss.
 

Deficiencies: Though it is possible to overcome most of the deficiencies with correcting the fertigation formula, deficiencies may cause loss of yield and the time spent after the correction of  the formula,  may be too late for some of the potential yield.

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Growing Smart
support package

  • Identifying the challenges/requirements for growing tomatoes in your area
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  • Identifying the best varieties for growing conditions and growers’ needs.
     

  • Plot design – planting density, irrigation system and its’ relevant pressure.
     

  • Fertilizing program to achieve maximum yield.
     

  • Pesticiding protocol and guidelines.
     

  • Post-harvest guidance.
     

  • Ongoing technical support to ensure best results and customers’ satisfaction.

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