Tomato

TestSolanum lycopersicum

Tomato (Tamatar) is one of the most important and profitable vegetable crops grown across India. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is cultivated both for fresh consumption and processing purposes. Tomato is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and lycopene, making it a highly nutritious vegetable. In India, tomato cultivation is done throughout the year in different agro-climatic zones. During Kharif season (June-July), Rabi season (October-November), and Summer season (January-February), farmers can grow tomatoes based on their region and variety selection. Commercial Importance: Ideal crop for small and marginal farmers with quick returns High demand in fresh markets, hotels, and processing industries Average yield of 200-250 quintal per acre in open field conditions Polyhouse cultivation can give 400-600 quintal per acre Good market price throughout the year with seasonal variations Suitable for both domestic consumption and export markets With proper variety selection, timely sowing, balanced nutrition, and integrated pest management, tomato farming can be highly profitable for Indian farmers.

Vegetables Kharif

Overview

Crop summary and key facts

In India, tomato cultivation is done throughout the year in different agro-climatic zones. During Kharif season (June-July), Rabi season (October-November), and Summer season (January-February), farmers can grow tomatoes based on their region and variety selection.

Commercial Importance:

Ideal crop for small and marginal farmers with quick returns
High demand in fresh markets, hotels, and processing industries
Average yield of 200-250 quintal per acre in open field conditions
Polyhouse cultivation can give 400-600 quintal per acre
Good market price throughout the year with seasonal variations
Suitable for both domestic consumption and export markets

With proper variety selection, timely sowing, balanced nutrition, and integrated pest management, tomato farming can be highly profitable for Indian farmers.

Key Information

Scientific Name

TestSolanum lycopersicum

Soil & Climate

Optimal environmental conditions

Soil Requirements

Tomato can be grown in various soil types, but proper soil preparation and pH management are essential for good yield.

Ideal Soil Type:

Best Soil: Well-drained sandy loam to loam soil with good organic matter
Also Suitable: Red soil, alluvial soil, and clay loam with proper drainage
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Soil Depth: Minimum 15-20 cm deep ploughing required
Drainage: Excellent drainage is must - waterlogging is harmful

Soil Preparation Steps:

First ploughing with soil turning plough after monsoon or previous crop harvest
Apply 8-10 tractor trolley of well-decomposed FYM (Farm Yard Manure) per acre
Give 2-3 cross harrowing to make soil fine and leveled
Prepare raised beds of 15 cm height for better drainage
Apply basal dose of fertilizers as per soil test recommendations
For polyhouse cultivation, soil solarization is recommended

Soil Testing: Always conduct soil testing before sowing to determine exact fertilizer requirements and lime application if soil is acidic.

Climate Requirements

Tomato is a warm-season crop but requires specific temperature ranges at different growth stages for optimal production.

Temperature Requirements:

Ideal Day Temperature: 25-30°C for vegetative growth
Night Temperature: 15-20°C for good fruit set
Germination: 20-25°C is optimal for seed germination
Fruit Setting: 20-24°C is best; poor fruit set below 15°C or above 35°C
Fruit Development: 20-24°C for good color and quality

Rainfall & Humidity:

Annual Rainfall: 60-150 cm well-distributed rainfall
Relative Humidity: 50-60% is ideal; high humidity promotes diseases
Critical Period: Excess rain during flowering reduces fruit set
Protection: Use polyhouse or rain shelter during heavy monsoon areas

Sunlight:

Requires full sunlight - minimum 6-8 hours daily
Light intensity affects fruit color and quality
Shade or cloudy weather reduces yield and increases disease incidence

Season-wise Cultivation:

Kharif: June-July sowing in low rainfall areas
Rabi: October-November sowing - best season for most regions
Summer: January-February sowing in assured irrigation areas
Hills: March-April sowing in hilly regions

Season

Kharif

Sowing: June – July

Harvest: September – October

Varieties

Recommended seeds and cultivars

Arka Rakshak

Hybrid - Indeterminate

Yield Potential

250-300 Quintal per Acre

Maturity

65-70 Days (First Picking)

Resistance

Pusa Rohini

Hybrid - Semi-Determinate (Compact Type)

Yield Potential

200-250 Quintal per Acre

Maturity

60-65 Days (Early Maturity)

Resistance

Abhinav F1

Hybrid - Determinate

Yield Potential

180-220 Quintal per Acre

Maturity

55-60 Days (Very Early Maturity)

Resistance

Seed & Planting

Sowing rates, spacing, and methods

Seed Rate:

Hybrid: 80-100 g/acre
OPV: 150-200 g/acre
Nursery Area: 400-500 m²/acre

Seed Quality:

Germination: 70-80% minimum
Purity: 98%
Moisture: < 8%
Use certified seeds only

Seed Treatment:

Carbendazim: 2 g/kg seed
Trichoderma: 4 g/kg seed (organic option)

Spacing:

Hybrid: 60 × 45 cm
OPV: 75 × 50 cm
Polyhouse: 60 × 45 cm

Raised Bed:

Width: 60 cm, Height: 15-20 cm
Improves drainage and reduces diseases

Seedling Selection:

Height: 10-15 cm, 4-5 leaves
Healthy, disease-free seedlings

Transplanting:

Do in evening or cloudy weather
Irrigate immediately after planting
Handle roots carefully

Modern Method:

Use plug trays (98/128 cells)
Better survival and uniform growth

Cultivation

Field preparation and agronomy

Cultivation

Nursery Raising (Paudha Tayyar Karna):

Nursery Bed Preparation:

Prepare raised nursery beds of 3 meter length, 1 meter width, and 15 cm height
Mix soil with well-decomposed FYM or vermicompost in 2:1 ratio
Treat nursery bed soil with Trichoderma @ 50 gm per square meter
Drench bed with Carbendazim @ 1 gm per liter water before sowing
Make shallow lines of 10 cm spacing for seed sowing

Seed Sowing in Nursery:

Sow seeds at 5 cm spacing in lines, cover with fine soil
Apply light irrigation with watering can immediately after sowing
Cover beds with dry grass or gunny bags for 3-4 days
Remove cover when 50% germination occurs (usually 5-7 days)
Provide shade net (50%) during hot months to protect seedlings
Seedlings ready for transplanting in 25-30 days (4-5 true leaves stage)

Main Field Preparation:

Plough field 2-3 times to make soil fine and weed-free
Apply FYM @ 8-10 tractor trolley per acre during last ploughing
Prepare raised beds of 60 cm width and 15 cm height with 45 cm furrows
Install drip irrigation system before transplanting (recommended)
Apply basal fertilizers before transplanting

Transplanting (Ropai):

Timing: Evening hours or cloudy days are best for transplanting
Seedling Selection: Choose healthy, disease-free seedlings of uniform size
Spacing for Hybrid Varieties: 60 cm row × 45 cm plant spacing (3,630 plants per acre)
Spacing for Local Varieties: 75 cm row × 50 cm plant spacing (2,900 plants per acre)
Transplanting Method: Make holes, place seedling, cover roots properly, and irrigate immediately
Gap Filling: Replace dead or weak seedlings within 7-10 days after transplanting

Staking and Training:

Provide bamboo or wooden stakes @ 1 stake per plant for indeterminate varieties
Install stakes of 5-6 feet height within 15 days of transplanting
Tie plants loosely with soft thread or jute rope at 15-20 cm intervals
For determinate varieties, staking is optional but recommended
In polyhouse, use vertical thread support system

Pruning and Defoliation:

Remove side shoots (suckers) regularly for indeterminate varieties
Keep only main stem or maximum 2 stems for better yield
Remove lower leaves touching ground after first fruit set
Remove diseased, yellow, or damaged leaves regularly
Stop removing suckers after 4-5 fruit clusters are formed

Mulching:

Apply plastic mulch (25-30 micron) for weed control and moisture conservation
Organic mulch like paddy straw can also be used @ 2-3 quintal per acre
Mulching reduces soil temperature, conserves moisture, and prevents soil-borne diseases

Stages

Crop growth timeline and key tasks

Nursery & Seedling (0–25 Days)

Goal: Healthy, Virus-Free Seedlings

Seeds germinate and grow into young plants. This stage is critical for preventing "Damping-off" and early whitefly-borne viruses.

Recommended Practices

Treatment: Treat seeds with Trichoderma (4g/kg) or Carbendazim (2g/kg).
Protection: Grow under a 40-mesh nylon net to keep out Whiteflies.
Hardening: Stop watering 3 days before transplanting to strengthen the stem.

Vegetative Phase (25–50 Days)

Goal: Strong Framework & Leaf Cover

Rapid growth of stems and leaves. The plant establishes its structure. For hybrid types, staking must start now.

Recommended Practices

Staking: Install bamboo stakes and tie plants loosely with jute thread.
Nutrition: Apply first top-dress of Urea (30kg/acre) + Micronutrients.
Pruning: Remove "suckers" (side shoots) to maintain a single strong main stem.

Flowering & Fruit Set (50–75 Days)

CRITICAL WATER STAGE

The transition from growth to production. Any stress (water or nutrient) will cause flowers to drop (Phool Jhadna).

Recommended Practices

Hormones: Spray Planofix (2ml per 15L tank) to reduce flower drop.
Nutrition: Apply Borax (5kg/acre) or Boric Acid spray for better pollination.
Irrigation: Maintain uniform moisture; never let the soil go bone dry.

Fruit Development (75–100 Days)

Goal: Size, Weight, and Shine

Fruits expand to full size. Proper Calcium and Potash are vital to prevent skin cracking and black bottom spots.

Recommended Practices

Calcium: Spray Calcium Nitrate (50g/15L) to prevent Blossom End Rot.
Potash: Use 0-0-50 (SOP) spray to improve fruit color and weight.
Fruit Borer: Install Pheromone Traps (8 per acre) to monitor "Phalkida" pests.

Maturity & Harvest (100+ Days)

Goal: Market Readiness

Fruits reach market color. Picking happens every 2–3 days. Shelf-life management is the priority.

Recommended Practices

Picking: Harvest at 'Breaker' stage (pinkish-yellow) for long-distance markets.
Storage: Keep harvested crates in shade; do not wash fruits before packing.
Pre-Harvest: Stop irrigation 2 days before picking to increase fruit firmness.

Nutrition

Fertilizers and deficiency remedies

Fertilizer Schedule

NPK & micronutrient application

Total Nutrient Requirement (Per Acre):

Nitrogen (N): 60 kg
Phosphorus (P): 40 kg
Potassium (K): 50 kg

Basal Dose (Land Preparation):

Apply 8-10 tractor trolleys of FYM during final ploughing
SSP: 200 kg per acre
MOP: 60 kg per acre
Urea: 30 kg per acre

Top Dressing Schedule:

25 Days: 30 kg Urea (vegetative growth)
45 Days: 30 kg Urea + 20 kg MOP (flowering stage)
65 Days: 30 kg Urea (fruit development)

Micronutrient Sprays (Per 15L Tank):

Boric Acid: 20 g for better flower set
SOP (00:00:50): 75 g for fruit quality and color

Important Tips:

Apply fertilizers 3-4 inches away from plant stem
Ensure soil moisture before application
Irrigate immediately after fertilizer application

Nutrient Deficiencies & Remedies

Nitrogen (N) Deficiency / Peela Rog

Calcium Deficiency / Blossom End Rot (BER)

Boron Deficiency / Fruit Cracking

Magnesium Deficiency / Interveinal Chlorosis

Irrigation

Water requirements and scheduling

Irrigation Schedule

Water & Irrigation Requirements

Water Requirement:

Open field: 45-60 cm total water
Critical stages: Transplanting, flowering, fruiting
Water stress → low yield, blossom end rot
Excess water → root rot, diseases

Irrigation Method:

Drip (Best): Saves water, improves yield
Furrow: Traditional method

Irrigation Schedule:

0-10 days: Daily light irrigation
10-30 days: Every 2-3 days
Flowering & fruiting: Daily or regular (critical stage)
Harvest stage: Reduce irrigation slightly

Soil-wise Irrigation:

Sandy: Frequent, less water
Loam: Normal schedule
Clay: Less frequent, more water

Season Adjustment:

Kharif: Irrigate only during dry spells
Rabi: Normal irrigation
Summer: More frequent irrigation

Water Quality:

pH: 6.0-7.5
EC: < 1.5 dS/m
Avoid saline water

Key Tips:

Maintain uniform soil moisture
Irrigate in morning or evening
Avoid over-irrigation
Use mulch to save water

Pests & Diseases

Identification, damage, and control

Pests

Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera) / Phalkida / Fruit Worm

⚠️ Visible Signs Bore Holes: Clean, circular holes on fruits, usually near the stem/calyx. Internal Feeding: The larva feeds inside, often leaving its rear half outside the fruit. Frass: Visible waste/excreta near the entry point. Field Impact Early stage larvae feed on leaves making irregular holes; later they move to flowers and fruits, causing heavy fruit drop.

High Damage

The most destructive pest of tomato. A single caterpillar can damage 8-10 fruits by boring into them, making the crop unmarketable.

Regional Names: Hindi: Phalkida / Tamatar ki Sundi | Marathi: Phal Pokarnari Aali | Telugu: Kayatholuchu Purugu | Kannada: Kai Koraka Hulu

Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) / Safed Makhi

⚠️ Visual: Tiny white clouds of insects appear when the plant is shaken. Sooty Mold: Leaves become black and sticky due to a fungus growing on their "honeydew" waste. Virus Sign: Severe upward curling and yellowing of young leaves. Growth: Plants become stunted and bushy if infested early.

Virus Vector

Tiny white-winged insects that suck sap and act as the primary carrier for the Leaf Curl Virus. They multiply rapidly in warm, dry weather.

Regional Names: Hindi: Safed Makhi | Marathi: पांढरी माशी (Pandhari Mashi) | Telugu: Tella Domma | Kannada: Bili Jiggatu

Aphids (Aphis gossypii) / Cheppa / Lahi

⚠️ Colonies: Clustered insects visible on the underside of young, tender leaves. Distortion: Infested leaves become twisted, wrinkled, and curl downwards. Secondary Sign: Presence of ants on the plant and a black coating (sooty mold) on leaves.

Cool Weather Pest

Soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from tender shoots. They are most active during the Rabi (winter) season.

Regional Names: Hindi: Lahi / Cheppa / Mahu | Marathi: मावा (Mawa) | Telugu: Penu Banka | Kannada: Karu Jiggatu

Leaf Miner (Liriomyza trifolii) / Surangi Aali

⚠️ Symptoms: Tunnels: White, serpentine (zig-zag) mines on leaf surface Drying: Leaves turn brown and dry in severe infestation Punctures: Tiny feeding holes leading to secondary infections

Type:

Foliar Pest

Description:

A tiny fly whose larvae tunnel between leaf surfaces, reducing photosynthesis and weakening the plant.

Regional Names:

Hindi: Surangi Keet / Pattiyon ki Surang
Marathi: पांढरी नागअळी (Nag-aali)
Telugu: Akutholuchu Purugu
Kannada: Ele Koreka

Red Spider Mite / Lal Koli / Erra nalli

⚠️ Stippling: Tiny yellow or white spots on the upper leaf surface. Webbing: Fine silk-like webs visible on the undersurface of leaves. Dusty Look: Leaves appear dusty and may eventually turn bronzed or rusty brown before falling.

Hot Weather Pest

Extremely tiny eight-legged pests that live in webs under the leaves. They are a major problem during the dry Summer months.

Regional Names: Hindi: Lal Makdi / Koli | Marathi: लाल कोळी (Lal Koli) | Telugu: Erra nalli / Akunalli | Kannada: Kempu Jiggatu

Expert Tips & Guidance

Diseases

Early Blight (Alternaria solani)

🦠 Leaf & Stem Signs Target Spot: Dark brown spots with concentric rings (like a bull's eye). Pattern: Starts on older bottom leaves and moves upward. Yellow Halo: Spots are often surrounded by a yellow chlorotic ring. Fruit Damage Stem-end Rot: Sunken, leathery black spots near the fruit stem. Sunscald: Heavy leaf drop exposes fruits to direct sun, causing burns.

High Yield Impact

Early Blight is the most common fungal disease in Indian tomato farming. It survives in soil and crop debris, spreading rapidly during warm, humid weather (24-29°C) via wind and rain.

Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans)

🦠 🏴 Diagnostic Identification White Downy Growth: Fluffy white mold on the leaf underside in the morning. Irregular Lesions: Water-soaked, purplish-black patches (no rings). Foul Odor: Characteristic smell from decomposing "scorched" tissues. Fruit Marbling: Firm, chocolate-brown greasy spots on fruit shoulders.

CRITICAL THREAT

The most devastating tomato disease. It spreads explosively in cool, very humid weather (>90% RH). It can destroy an entire field in just 7–10 days if left untreated.

Bacterial Wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum)

🦠 Field Diagnosis (The "Smoke" Test): Rapid Wilting: Plant wilts suddenly while still remaining green. Temporary Recovery: Plant wilts in the afternoon but recovers at night. Milky Ooze: A cut stem held in a glass of water shows white "smoke-like" ooze streaming out.

Soil-Borne

A soil-borne bacteria that blocks the plant's water vessels. It is most severe in warm, acidic, or waterlogged soils. Note: Chemicals cannot cure the plant once it wilts.

Tomato Leaf Curl Virus (ToLCV)

🦠 Identification Signs Curling: Severe upward and inward curling of young leaves. Stunting: Plants remain bushy and very short (stunted). Puckering: Leaves become thick, leathery, and wrinkled. Production: Little to no fruit formation; flowers often drop.

Viral - Vector Borne

ToLCV is the most devastating viral disease in India. It is transmitted by Whitefly.

Regional Names: Hindi: Kukda Rog / Murra Rog | Marathi: Churda-Murda | Telugu: Akumudatha | Kannada: Ele Muduru Roga

Damping-Off

🦠 Pre-emergence Seeds rot in the soil before they can sprout, leading to empty patches in the nursery bed. Post-emergence The stem at soil level becomes water-soaked and soft. Seedlings collapse and fall over. Common in overcrowded beds with excess water.

Nursery Disease

A serious soil-borne fungal disease that attacks young seedlings in the nursery bed before or after they emerge from the soil.

Regional Names: Hindi: Paud-Galan | Marathi: Rope Marne | Telugu: Tholu Tholuchuta | Kannada: Naaru Kole Roga

Early Blight (Alternaria solani)

High Yield Impact

Early Blight is the most common fungal disease in Indian tomato farming. It survives in soil and crop debris, spreading rapidly during warm, humid weather (24-29°C) via wind and rain.

Weeds

Weed Management (Kharpatwar Niyantran):

Effective weed control can increase yield by up to 50%.

Critical Period:

First 45-60 days after transplanting are most important
Weeds during this period can reduce yield by 40-60%

Mulching (Best Method):

Plastic Mulch (25-30 micron): 95-100% weed control, conserves moisture, cost ₹8,000-10,000/acre
Organic Mulch: 60-70% weed control, improves soil, cost ₹2,000-3,000/acre

Chemical Control:

Pendimethalin 30% EC: 1.0-1.5 L/acre within 48 hours after transplanting
Quizalofop Ethyl 5% EC: 200-250 ml/acre for grass weeds (post-emergence)

Integrated Weed Management:

Apply Pendimethalin within 2 days after transplanting
Use plastic mulch for maximum control
Do one hand weeding at 45 days

Important Tips:

Spray herbicide on moist soil
Use flat fan nozzle for uniform spray
Maintain spray height of 30-45 cm
Wear mask and gloves during spraying

Expert Tips & Guidance

Harvesting

Yield estimates and post-harvest care

Harvesting

Pick tomatoes early in the morning when they are cool and twist them off the stem gently so they will be fresh. Select the appropriate stage for your purpose. For long distance transport, select green fruits; for immediate use, select red-ripe fruits. Never harvest when it is raining or when fruits are wet.

Use clean, soft-lined containers to avoid bruising and keep various stages of maturity separate to help with sorting. Harvested fruit should be moved to the shade immediately to maintain quality and should not be mixed with diseased or overripe fruit.

Post-Harvest Handling

Sort tomatoes by size and color, removing any damaged or deformed fruit to ensure quality. For packing, use cushioned crates or cardboard boxes in shallow layers to prevent crushing during transport. Store tomatoes in a cool, well-ventilated area—ideally between 8°C and 15°C depending on ripeness—but avoid temperatures below 7°C as this causes chilling injury.

To maintain freshness, do not wash fruits intended for long-term storage and always keep them out of direct sunlight. Finally, use refrigerated transport for long distances and process any over-ripe fruit into puree or paste to avoid waste.

References

Agricultural university and research guides

References and Data Sources:

ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru
ICAR - Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR), Varanasi
State Agricultural Universities (TNAU, UAS Bengaluru, ANGRAU, PAU)
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India
National Horticulture Board (NHB)

Important Notes:

Recommendations are based on field-tested research and official guidelines
Always follow pesticide labels and local agriculture advisories
Consult nearby KVK or agriculture officers for region-specific guidance

Community Discussion

Join the conversation

All comments

Important Notice

The crop information presented here is for general educational and informational purposes only. Farm conditions, soil profiles, and weather patterns vary significantly. Always consult qualified agricultural extension officers, local scientists, or professional agronomists before starting complex planting, crop protection, or fertilization programs.

Tomato

TestSolanum lycopersicum

Overview

Crop summary and key facts

Commercial Importance:

Ideal crop for small and marginal farmers with quick returns
High demand in fresh markets, hotels, and processing industries
Average yield of 200-250 quintal per acre in open field conditions
Polyhouse cultivation can give 400-600 quintal per acre
Good market price throughout the year with seasonal variations
Suitable for both domestic consumption and export markets

With proper variety selection, timely sowing, balanced nutrition, and integrated pest management, tomato farming can be highly profitable for Indian farmers.

Key Information

Scientific Name

TestSolanum lycopersicum

Soil & Climate

Optimal environmental conditions

Soil Requirements

Tomato can be grown in various soil types, but proper soil preparation and pH management are essential for good yield.

Ideal Soil Type:

Best Soil: Well-drained sandy loam to loam soil with good organic matter
Also Suitable: Red soil, alluvial soil, and clay loam with proper drainage
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Soil Depth: Minimum 15-20 cm deep ploughing required
Drainage: Excellent drainage is must - waterlogging is harmful

Soil Preparation Steps:

First ploughing with soil turning plough after monsoon or previous crop harvest
Apply 8-10 tractor trolley of well-decomposed FYM (Farm Yard Manure) per acre
Give 2-3 cross harrowing to make soil fine and leveled
Prepare raised beds of 15 cm height for better drainage
Apply basal dose of fertilizers as per soil test recommendations
For polyhouse cultivation, soil solarization is recommended

Soil Testing: Always conduct soil testing before sowing to determine exact fertilizer requirements and lime application if soil is acidic.

Climate Requirements

Tomato is a warm-season crop but requires specific temperature ranges at different growth stages for optimal production.

Temperature Requirements:

Ideal Day Temperature: 25-30°C for vegetative growth
Night Temperature: 15-20°C for good fruit set
Germination: 20-25°C is optimal for seed germination
Fruit Setting: 20-24°C is best; poor fruit set below 15°C or above 35°C
Fruit Development: 20-24°C for good color and quality

Rainfall & Humidity:

Annual Rainfall: 60-150 cm well-distributed rainfall
Relative Humidity: 50-60% is ideal; high humidity promotes diseases
Critical Period: Excess rain during flowering reduces fruit set
Protection: Use polyhouse or rain shelter during heavy monsoon areas

Sunlight:

Requires full sunlight - minimum 6-8 hours daily
Light intensity affects fruit color and quality
Shade or cloudy weather reduces yield and increases disease incidence

Season-wise Cultivation:

Kharif: June-July sowing in low rainfall areas
Rabi: October-November sowing - best season for most regions
Summer: January-February sowing in assured irrigation areas
Hills: March-April sowing in hilly regions

Season

Kharif

Sowing: June – July

Harvest: September – October

Varieties

Recommended seeds and cultivars

Arka Rakshak

Hybrid - Indeterminate

Yield Potential

250-300 Quintal per Acre

Maturity

65-70 Days (First Picking)

Resistance

Pusa Rohini

Hybrid - Semi-Determinate (Compact Type)

Yield Potential

200-250 Quintal per Acre

Maturity

60-65 Days (Early Maturity)

Resistance

Abhinav F1

Hybrid - Determinate

Yield Potential

180-220 Quintal per Acre

Maturity

55-60 Days (Very Early Maturity)

Resistance

Seed & Planting

Sowing rates, spacing, and methods

Seed Rate:

Hybrid: 80-100 g/acre
OPV: 150-200 g/acre
Nursery Area: 400-500 m²/acre

Seed Quality:

Germination: 70-80% minimum
Purity: 98%
Moisture: < 8%
Use certified seeds only

Seed Treatment:

Carbendazim: 2 g/kg seed
Trichoderma: 4 g/kg seed (organic option)

Spacing:

Hybrid: 60 × 45 cm
OPV: 75 × 50 cm
Polyhouse: 60 × 45 cm

Raised Bed:

Width: 60 cm, Height: 15-20 cm
Improves drainage and reduces diseases

Seedling Selection:

Height: 10-15 cm, 4-5 leaves
Healthy, disease-free seedlings

Transplanting:

Do in evening or cloudy weather
Irrigate immediately after planting
Handle roots carefully

Modern Method:

Use plug trays (98/128 cells)
Better survival and uniform growth

Cultivation

Field preparation and agronomy

Cultivation

Nursery Raising (Paudha Tayyar Karna):

Nursery Bed Preparation:

Prepare raised nursery beds of 3 meter length, 1 meter width, and 15 cm height
Mix soil with well-decomposed FYM or vermicompost in 2:1 ratio
Treat nursery bed soil with Trichoderma @ 50 gm per square meter
Drench bed with Carbendazim @ 1 gm per liter water before sowing
Make shallow lines of 10 cm spacing for seed sowing

Seed Sowing in Nursery:

Sow seeds at 5 cm spacing in lines, cover with fine soil
Apply light irrigation with watering can immediately after sowing
Cover beds with dry grass or gunny bags for 3-4 days
Remove cover when 50% germination occurs (usually 5-7 days)
Provide shade net (50%) during hot months to protect seedlings
Seedlings ready for transplanting in 25-30 days (4-5 true leaves stage)

Main Field Preparation:

Plough field 2-3 times to make soil fine and weed-free
Apply FYM @ 8-10 tractor trolley per acre during last ploughing
Prepare raised beds of 60 cm width and 15 cm height with 45 cm furrows
Install drip irrigation system before transplanting (recommended)
Apply basal fertilizers before transplanting

Transplanting (Ropai):

Timing: Evening hours or cloudy days are best for transplanting
Seedling Selection: Choose healthy, disease-free seedlings of uniform size
Spacing for Hybrid Varieties: 60 cm row × 45 cm plant spacing (3,630 plants per acre)
Spacing for Local Varieties: 75 cm row × 50 cm plant spacing (2,900 plants per acre)
Transplanting Method: Make holes, place seedling, cover roots properly, and irrigate immediately
Gap Filling: Replace dead or weak seedlings within 7-10 days after transplanting

Staking and Training:

Provide bamboo or wooden stakes @ 1 stake per plant for indeterminate varieties
Install stakes of 5-6 feet height within 15 days of transplanting
Tie plants loosely with soft thread or jute rope at 15-20 cm intervals
For determinate varieties, staking is optional but recommended
In polyhouse, use vertical thread support system

Pruning and Defoliation:

Remove side shoots (suckers) regularly for indeterminate varieties
Keep only main stem or maximum 2 stems for better yield
Remove lower leaves touching ground after first fruit set
Remove diseased, yellow, or damaged leaves regularly
Stop removing suckers after 4-5 fruit clusters are formed

Mulching:

Apply plastic mulch (25-30 micron) for weed control and moisture conservation
Organic mulch like paddy straw can also be used @ 2-3 quintal per acre
Mulching reduces soil temperature, conserves moisture, and prevents soil-borne diseases

Stages

Crop growth timeline and key tasks

Nursery & Seedling (0–25 Days)

Goal: Healthy, Virus-Free Seedlings

Seeds germinate and grow into young plants. This stage is critical for preventing "Damping-off" and early whitefly-borne viruses.

Recommended Practices

Treatment: Treat seeds with Trichoderma (4g/kg) or Carbendazim (2g/kg).
Protection: Grow under a 40-mesh nylon net to keep out Whiteflies.
Hardening: Stop watering 3 days before transplanting to strengthen the stem.

Vegetative Phase (25–50 Days)

Goal: Strong Framework & Leaf Cover

Rapid growth of stems and leaves. The plant establishes its structure. For hybrid types, staking must start now.

Recommended Practices

Staking: Install bamboo stakes and tie plants loosely with jute thread.
Nutrition: Apply first top-dress of Urea (30kg/acre) + Micronutrients.
Pruning: Remove "suckers" (side shoots) to maintain a single strong main stem.

Flowering & Fruit Set (50–75 Days)

CRITICAL WATER STAGE

The transition from growth to production. Any stress (water or nutrient) will cause flowers to drop (Phool Jhadna).

Recommended Practices

Hormones: Spray Planofix (2ml per 15L tank) to reduce flower drop.
Nutrition: Apply Borax (5kg/acre) or Boric Acid spray for better pollination.
Irrigation: Maintain uniform moisture; never let the soil go bone dry.

Fruit Development (75–100 Days)

Goal: Size, Weight, and Shine

Fruits expand to full size. Proper Calcium and Potash are vital to prevent skin cracking and black bottom spots.

Recommended Practices

Calcium: Spray Calcium Nitrate (50g/15L) to prevent Blossom End Rot.
Potash: Use 0-0-50 (SOP) spray to improve fruit color and weight.
Fruit Borer: Install Pheromone Traps (8 per acre) to monitor "Phalkida" pests.

Maturity & Harvest (100+ Days)

Goal: Market Readiness

Fruits reach market color. Picking happens every 2–3 days. Shelf-life management is the priority.

Recommended Practices

Picking: Harvest at 'Breaker' stage (pinkish-yellow) for long-distance markets.
Storage: Keep harvested crates in shade; do not wash fruits before packing.
Pre-Harvest: Stop irrigation 2 days before picking to increase fruit firmness.

Nutrition

Fertilizers and deficiency remedies

Fertilizer Schedule

NPK & micronutrient application

Total Nutrient Requirement (Per Acre):

Nitrogen (N): 60 kg
Phosphorus (P): 40 kg
Potassium (K): 50 kg

Basal Dose (Land Preparation):

Apply 8-10 tractor trolleys of FYM during final ploughing
SSP: 200 kg per acre
MOP: 60 kg per acre
Urea: 30 kg per acre

Top Dressing Schedule:

25 Days: 30 kg Urea (vegetative growth)
45 Days: 30 kg Urea + 20 kg MOP (flowering stage)
65 Days: 30 kg Urea (fruit development)

Micronutrient Sprays (Per 15L Tank):

Boric Acid: 20 g for better flower set
SOP (00:00:50): 75 g for fruit quality and color

Important Tips:

Apply fertilizers 3-4 inches away from plant stem
Ensure soil moisture before application
Irrigate immediately after fertilizer application

Nutrient Deficiencies & Remedies

Nitrogen (N) Deficiency / Peela Rog

Calcium Deficiency / Blossom End Rot (BER)

Boron Deficiency / Fruit Cracking

Magnesium Deficiency / Interveinal Chlorosis

Irrigation

Water requirements and scheduling

Irrigation Schedule

Water & Irrigation Requirements

Water Requirement:

Open field: 45-60 cm total water
Critical stages: Transplanting, flowering, fruiting
Water stress → low yield, blossom end rot
Excess water → root rot, diseases

Irrigation Method:

Drip (Best): Saves water, improves yield
Furrow: Traditional method

Irrigation Schedule:

0-10 days: Daily light irrigation
10-30 days: Every 2-3 days
Flowering & fruiting: Daily or regular (critical stage)
Harvest stage: Reduce irrigation slightly

Soil-wise Irrigation:

Sandy: Frequent, less water
Loam: Normal schedule
Clay: Less frequent, more water

Season Adjustment:

Kharif: Irrigate only during dry spells
Rabi: Normal irrigation
Summer: More frequent irrigation

Water Quality:

pH: 6.0-7.5
EC: < 1.5 dS/m
Avoid saline water

Key Tips:

Maintain uniform soil moisture
Irrigate in morning or evening
Avoid over-irrigation
Use mulch to save water

Pests & Diseases

Identification, damage, and control

Pests

Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera) / Phalkida / Fruit Worm

High Damage

The most destructive pest of tomato. A single caterpillar can damage 8-10 fruits by boring into them, making the crop unmarketable.

Regional Names: Hindi: Phalkida / Tamatar ki Sundi | Marathi: Phal Pokarnari Aali | Telugu: Kayatholuchu Purugu | Kannada: Kai Koraka Hulu

Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) / Safed Makhi

Virus Vector

Tiny white-winged insects that suck sap and act as the primary carrier for the Leaf Curl Virus. They multiply rapidly in warm, dry weather.

Regional Names: Hindi: Safed Makhi | Marathi: पांढरी माशी (Pandhari Mashi) | Telugu: Tella Domma | Kannada: Bili Jiggatu

Aphids (Aphis gossypii) / Cheppa / Lahi

Cool Weather Pest

Soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from tender shoots. They are most active during the Rabi (winter) season.

Regional Names: Hindi: Lahi / Cheppa / Mahu | Marathi: मावा (Mawa) | Telugu: Penu Banka | Kannada: Karu Jiggatu

Leaf Miner (Liriomyza trifolii) / Surangi Aali

⚠️ Symptoms: Tunnels: White, serpentine (zig-zag) mines on leaf surface Drying: Leaves turn brown and dry in severe infestation Punctures: Tiny feeding holes leading to secondary infections

Type:

Foliar Pest

Description:

A tiny fly whose larvae tunnel between leaf surfaces, reducing photosynthesis and weakening the plant.

Regional Names:

Hindi: Surangi Keet / Pattiyon ki Surang
Marathi: पांढरी नागअळी (Nag-aali)
Telugu: Akutholuchu Purugu
Kannada: Ele Koreka

Red Spider Mite / Lal Koli / Erra nalli

Hot Weather Pest

Extremely tiny eight-legged pests that live in webs under the leaves. They are a major problem during the dry Summer months.

Regional Names: Hindi: Lal Makdi / Koli | Marathi: लाल कोळी (Lal Koli) | Telugu: Erra nalli / Akunalli | Kannada: Kempu Jiggatu

Expert Tips & Guidance

Diseases

Early Blight (Alternaria solani)

High Yield Impact

Early Blight is the most common fungal disease in Indian tomato farming. It survives in soil and crop debris, spreading rapidly during warm, humid weather (24-29°C) via wind and rain.

Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans)

CRITICAL THREAT

The most devastating tomato disease. It spreads explosively in cool, very humid weather (>90% RH). It can destroy an entire field in just 7–10 days if left untreated.

Bacterial Wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum)

Soil-Borne

A soil-borne bacteria that blocks the plant's water vessels. It is most severe in warm, acidic, or waterlogged soils. Note: Chemicals cannot cure the plant once it wilts.

Tomato Leaf Curl Virus (ToLCV)

Viral - Vector Borne

ToLCV is the most devastating viral disease in India. It is transmitted by Whitefly.

Regional Names: Hindi: Kukda Rog / Murra Rog | Marathi: Churda-Murda | Telugu: Akumudatha | Kannada: Ele Muduru Roga

Damping-Off

Nursery Disease

A serious soil-borne fungal disease that attacks young seedlings in the nursery bed before or after they emerge from the soil.

Regional Names: Hindi: Paud-Galan | Marathi: Rope Marne | Telugu: Tholu Tholuchuta | Kannada: Naaru Kole Roga

Early Blight (Alternaria solani)

High Yield Impact

Early Blight is the most common fungal disease in Indian tomato farming. It survives in soil and crop debris, spreading rapidly during warm, humid weather (24-29°C) via wind and rain.

Weeds

Weed Management (Kharpatwar Niyantran):

Effective weed control can increase yield by up to 50%.

Critical Period:

First 45-60 days after transplanting are most important
Weeds during this period can reduce yield by 40-60%

Mulching (Best Method):

Plastic Mulch (25-30 micron): 95-100% weed control, conserves moisture, cost ₹8,000-10,000/acre
Organic Mulch: 60-70% weed control, improves soil, cost ₹2,000-3,000/acre

Chemical Control:

Pendimethalin 30% EC: 1.0-1.5 L/acre within 48 hours after transplanting
Quizalofop Ethyl 5% EC: 200-250 ml/acre for grass weeds (post-emergence)

Integrated Weed Management:

Apply Pendimethalin within 2 days after transplanting
Use plastic mulch for maximum control
Do one hand weeding at 45 days

Important Tips:

Spray herbicide on moist soil
Use flat fan nozzle for uniform spray
Maintain spray height of 30-45 cm
Wear mask and gloves during spraying

Expert Tips & Guidance

Harvesting

Yield estimates and post-harvest care

Harvesting

Post-Harvest Handling

References

Agricultural university and research guides

References and Data Sources:

ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru
ICAR - Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR), Varanasi
State Agricultural Universities (TNAU, UAS Bengaluru, ANGRAU, PAU)
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India
National Horticulture Board (NHB)