ISHS Acta Horticulturae 51: Symposium on Protected Cultivation of Flowers and Vegetables
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG TOMATO PLANTS |
| Authors: | D. Klapwijk, P.J.A.L. de Lint |
| Abstract:
Between 1968 and 1975 three year round series of tomato sowings were grown. Fresh weights of each sowing were determined once or twice a week from emergence to flowering. Also dates of opening of the first flower were observed. Of the third series also the number of initiated flower buds on the main stem were counted each time fresh weights were determined. Growth and development are presented as number of days between sowing and specific stages. Firstly it is shown that the number of days to reach a yearly average plant fresh weight is very closely correlated with the average number of days, to the corresponding developmental stage. Both, a fresh weight of 3.3 g and the corresponding stage of 5 flower buds initiated, were reached 23.1 days after sowing. A weight of 24 g and 12 flower buds were reached after 31.7 and 31.3 days, respectively. A fresh weight of 70 g and opening of the first flower were obtained at 38.5 and 38.3 days, respectively. The very close correlation is maintained in all seasons and for individual sowings. Growth and development rates were improved considerably during the experimental period. The shortest period between sowing of the dry seed and opening of the first flower being 26 days and between opening of the first flower and ripening 33 days. The maximum growth rate obtained was 60 % daily increase and this was maintained till 30 g fresh weight was reached. | |
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